What Strong Instructional Leaders Study in Summer

Summer offers school leaders something that's often in short supply during the school year—time to think, reflect, and grow. But with so many books, podcasts, conferences, and professional learning opportunities available, how do you know what deserves your attention?

In this episode, Dr. Mel Vandevort shares three areas that strong instructional leaders intentionally study during the summer to better support teachers and improve student learning. Rather than chasing the latest educational trend, you'll be challenged to focus on learning that creates lasting impact in your school.

Whether you're a new principal, an experienced administrator, an instructional coach, or an aspiring school leader, this conversation will help you be more intentional about how you invest your professional growth before the school year begins.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Why instructional leaders should study student learning before studying programs
The connection between understanding high-quality instruction and coaching teachers effectively
Why learning how adults grow is just as important as understanding how students learn
One practical step you can take this summer to strengthen your instructional leadership

Reflection Question:
What are you intentionally studying this summer that will make you a stronger instructional leader this fall?

References

Robinson, V. M. J., Lloyd, C. A., & Rowe, K. J. (2008). The Impact of Leadership on Student Outcomes: An Analysis of the Differential Effects of Leadership Types.
Hattie, J. (2015). High-Impact Leadership.
Bendikson, L., Robinson, V., & Hattie, J. (2012). Principal Instructional Leadership and Secondary School Performance.
Çelik et al. (2022). The Association Between Principal Leadership and Student Achievement: A Multivariate Meta-Meta-Analysis.

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