Curriculum Implementation Philosophy

My personal philosophy on how I expect curriculum to be implemented at my school starts with my complete understanding of my role and responsibilities. At this level of leadership being a principal of a school I will be responsible for (1) ensuring implementation of state and federal education policies; (2) formulating additional school education policies; and (3) creating processes for the school curriculum, purchasing curriculum materials, determining the availability of instructional resources, developing school budgets. In addition I will be setting instructional priorities, provide instructional guidance, create incentive structures, and influence the willingness and capacity of schools and teachers to explore and implement different instructional techniques.

Being a leader in the field of education I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my responsibility as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas. There are three elements that I believe are conducive to establishing such an environment, (1) the teachers acting as a guide, (2) allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and (3) promoting a culture of respect for all things, all staff and all students.

I will promote the importance of student self-discovery to the teachers,giving my students the opportunity to study things that are meaningful and relevant to their life and interests. Developing a curriculum around student interests fosters intrinsic motivation and stimulates the passion to learn. One way I will take learning into a direction relevant to student interest is to invite student dialogue about the lessons and units of study. Given the opportunity for input, students generate ideas and set goals that make for much richer activities than I could have created or imagined myself. When students have ownership in the curriculum, they are motivated to work hard and master the skills necessary to reach their goals.

I will also put together a cultural committee that will help students to develop a deep love and respect for themselves, others, and their environment. This will occurs through an open sharing of ideas and a judicious approach to discipline. My school will be a place where the voice of each student is heard, and environment evolves where students feel free to express themselves appropriately. Class meetings are one way to encourage such dialogue. I believe children have greater respect for their teachers, their peers, and the lessons presented when they feel safe and sure of what is expected of them. In setting fair and consistent rules initially and stating the importance of every activity, students are shown respect for their presence and time. In turn they learn to respect themselves, others, and their environment.

The school curriculum will have a balanced core of learning. A foundation for challenging enrichment programs at the elementary level leading to Advanced Placement courses at the high school is important. Curriculum should be inter-disciplinary so students can make connections scaffolding their learning from one subject to another. All curriculums will have a belief system by which a foundation can be built. My belief system will incorporate relationships where students matter, teachers make a difference in the classroom, ongoing professional development leads to improved achievement, active learning and engagement of students is a priority, challenging curriculum promotes thinking skills and school improvement is a continuous process where all students can learn.