A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

Purpose and Structure of the Policy Forum

To explore the major issues involved in creating effective leadership for today's schools, the National Institute on Educational Governance, Finance, Policymaking, and Management of the Office of Educational Research and Improvement (OERI) held a 2-day forum on Educational Leadership in Washington, DC, on January 22 and 23, 1998. The 43 participants included successful and innovative superintendents, principals, and teachers from urban, suburban, and rural school districts, as well as prominent researchers in education leadership. Also in this group were state policymakers, education consultants, professional development specialists, representatives of foundations and school reform groups, U.S. Department of Education officials, and association leaders representing school boards, school administrators, principals, and teachers.

The Forum used a seminar approach. Leading practitioners and researchers made brief presentations which included information about successful schools and districts. This was followed by discussion by the whole group focused on the following questions:

• What is the definition of an effective leader for today's schools? What do case studies of successful districts tell us about what good leaders do and how we can support them?
• Which practices do successful leaders use to improve teaching and learning? How can we change practice to strengthen leadership?
• How can we help current leaders meet new definitions of leadership? How can we change professional development to strengthen leadership?
• What do changing definitions of effective leadership mean for preparation programs? How can we prepare new leaders?
• What are the research implications of changing definitions of educational leadership? Which key issues require further research?
• What are the policy implications of changing definitions of educational leadership? What steps can policymakers take to promote effective leadership?

This report summarizes the main ideas and suggestions raised by the Forum participants. It is meant as a starting point for further actions to improve leadership in U.S. schools. It should be noted that the case studies discussed at the Forum are not the only places in the country taking interesting approaches to leadership. Many other urban, suburban, and rural districts are using similar practices or are developing their own effective models.

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[ Why a Policy Forum On Leadership? ]

[ What is Effective Leadership for Today's Schools? ]