Communication Tips for School Leaders

Reprinted from CommLINK

Compiled by Angela Penquite

Student and school success depend on outstanding communication by everyone in a school system, from frontline employees, such as school secretaries, to teachers, principals, top administrators, and others.

"Communications is the lifeblood of teaching and learning," wrote Robert D. Ramsey in his book, Say the Right Thing Every Time. Students need clear instructions and an understanding of the standards that are set for them. Parents and the community look to school leaders to keep them informed about the successes and challenges the district is facing. With all of the demands on administrators today, it is not surprising that clear communication must overcome many obstacles.

There are important things to keep in mind when communicating clearly to key audiences (students, parents, staff, and community members). Remember, it is important to communicate with people, not at them. Here are some tips that may help you not only communicate what you want, but do it well.

With Students

• Learn the names of as many students as possible, and greet them. This demonstrates your genuine interest, and students will find you more approachable. 
• Find ways to recognize students for positive accomplishments by sending home congratulatory letters, posting names on a bulletin board, or calling their homes when you catch them doing something good. Direct interaction with students should not be related solely to disciplinary actions.
• Show students that you enjoy interacting with and listening to them. Remember to smile in the hallways, and show students that you are accessible.
• When speaking with students, don't talk over their heads using educational jargon, but don't talk down to them, either.

With Parents

• Publish a regular parent newsletter that includes important dates, deadlines, meetings, student achievements, and class activities. Be sure parents hear your voice through this newsletter. Consider sending an e-newsletter to parents.
• Schedule some parent meetings during times when working parents can attend, especially recognition events. This shows your school is working to include them, even if they cannot make it to all events.
• Be respectful of differing opinions or backgrounds when talking to parents about their children. Show you have an open mind and that you are trying to work with them, not against them.
• Show parents you sincerely care about their concerns or complaints by being sure to address them.

With Teachers

• Be generous and timely with praise. Recognize teachers and other staff in the school newsletter and staff bulletins for awards, new classroom initiatives, and other accomplishments.
• Urge parents to thank teachers and to share positive comments, not just complaints.
• Communicate to teachers that you respect and value them as professionals, and treat them as such.
• Ensure your teachers know you will back them in difficult situations with parents and students.

With the Community 

• Never use educational jargon. Communication will be ineffective if your words impede understanding.
• Seek citizen input about how things are going in your school and how they think you might improve.
• Always have two or three bragging points when asked, "What's new?"

Reprinted with permission from the Ohio School Boards Association Briefcase.

October 2008