Mastering Clarity and Accountability in School Leadership

Sitting across from a teacher you hired two years ago, you are wondering why they can’t seem to meet the expectations that you have regarding effective teaching practices. You have used phrases like, “Better classroom management, effective engagement, and parent communication.” They still come up short each time that you are in their room observing.

In this situation, the questions we could ask ourselves are:

• “How clear have I been when outlining my expectations?
• Did I show them what it looks like in real time?
• Did I provide a model?
• Have I provided feedback on a lesson plan prior to an observation so they could see mistakes prior to the evaluation?”

When you think about leading a school, clarity and accountability stand as pillars of effective leadership. Principals who represent these qualities foster an environment where goals are understood, actions are purposeful, and outcomes are measurable.

When we are clear as leaders, we empower our teachers and staff to use their strengths and talents to achieve the goals that we set together.

Clear Expectations

Clear expectations are the basis of all leadership. Leaders must show others what success looks like, providing a map for their team to follow. This involves answering three fundamental questions: Why, How, and What.

• Why: Leaders must communicate the purpose and significance behind each task or goal. Understanding the overarching objectives instills a sense of purpose and motivation within the team.
• How: Leaders should outline the strategies, resources, skills, and timelines required to achieve the desired outcome. Providing guidance on the approach empowers individuals to navigate challenges effectively. This includes being explicit, using examples and concrete models, and providing resources for teachers to have the support they need. 
• What: Clearly defining the expected results leaves no room for uncertainty. Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals can serve as benchmarks for progress and success.

Accountability Loop

The accountability loop serves as a mechanism for continuous improvement and growth within your school. It consists of setting clear expectations, trying out the assigned tasks, and receiving feedback.

• Setting Clear Expectations: Clear communication of expectations is the foundation of the accountability loop. Team members who understand what is expected of them are able to hit the mark more often than not.
• Trying It Out: Taking action is the next step in the accountability loop. Individuals engage their work based on the defined expectations and apply their skills and knowledge to make sure the outcomes are achieved. 
• Feedback: Constructive feedback is a powerful tool for development. Leaders should provide feedback that acknowledges both positive aspects and areas for improvement. Maintaining a 4:1 ratio of positive to constructive feedback ensures that people are reinforced for the things they are doing well as well as what to keep doing while constructive criticism facilitates growth in the areas that are important.

Clarity and accountability are two pillars in effective leadership. By setting clear expectations and implementing an accountability loop, leaders create an environment where people thrive and achieve their full potential.

Embracing transparency, providing constructive feedback, and maintaining a balance between praise and guidance helps teams to navigate challenges. As principals master the art of clarity and accountability, they pave the way for teacher success and sustained student achievement. 

Joe Fabey is assistant director of student achievement at Fountain-Fort Carson School District in Fountain, Colorado.

Clint Allison is executive director of student achievement at Fountain-Fort Carson School District.