Instructional leadership from Rick DuFour’s viewpoint, focuses on ensuring that all aspects of a school’s leadership are centered around improving teaching and learning. DuFour emphasizes the importance of principals and school leaders working collaboratively with teachers to create a shared vision of student success. He highlights the role of leaders in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, where educators are supported in refining their teaching practices, utilizing data to guide decisions, and holding themselves accountable to student outcomes. DuFour believes that instructional leadership isn’t just about administrative tasks but actively engaging in processes that directly impact student learning and teacher growth.

Specifically, there are five aspects of effective instructional leadership.  These include, leadership and specifically shared leadership, instruction, school culture and beliefs, structures and family engagement.  DuFour indicates in his work of training on PLCs that these components of instructional leadership are imperative to improving outcomes for students. All five components must be attended to continuously and evaluated for its impact on student learning.  I have seen amazing schools that produce uncommonly high results and those schools have created conditions that foster these five areas of effective instructional leadership.

This week I want to recognize Monica Thayer, principal at Hillsdale Elementary. Here’s what one of her teachers had to say about her:

“Monica Thayer is the embodiment of dedication and passion for education. With an unwavering commitment to our school community, she goes above and beyond to ensure every student thrives. Not only does she know each student by name, but they also take the time to understand their individual strengths and challenges, fostering a truly personal connection. Her tireless work ethic and devotion to both academic excellence and emotional well-being creates an environment where students as well as teachers feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Through their leadership, our school is not just a place of learning, but a nurturing space where every student’s potential is recognized and celebrated.”