Running head: HOW TO IMPROVE INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP 1

Article Summary: How to Improve Instructional Leadership: High School Principal Selection

Process versus Evaluation Process by Ann Hassenpflug

Lynette ONeal

University of St. Thomas

EDUC 6331

Dr. A. Patrick Huff

April 26, 2017

Running head: HOW TO IMPROVE INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP 1

Article Summary: How to Improve Instructional Leadership: High School Principal Selection

Process versus Evaluation Process by Ann Hassenpflug

In this article, Hassenpflug (2013) discusses the state of Ohio was using to implement a

new state evaluation process for public school principals. Hassenpflug (2013) posits that the

selection process, not the evaluation process, should be the focus when selecting a high school

principal. As indicated in the article, the focus of the new evaluation process is to increase

student achievement with student growth accounting for 50% of the evaluation score.

An idea that is repeated throughout the article is that high school principals are the

instructional leaders of the school and should possess the skill set necessary to fulfill the

demands of their jobs. Hassenpflug (2013) indicates that an evaluation process that focuses on an

individuals ability to complete managerial and operational tasks is not sufficient for high school

principals who should also have knowledge about curricular and pedagogical issues for high

schools as opposed to tasks that are similar at all grade levels. It is suggested that candidates

have some knowledge of such issues prior to selection. Moreover, the selection process should

be designed to hire instructional leaders, not just managers.

Hassenpflug (2013) suggests that the selection process needs to be change. It is

contended that the selection criteria should emphasize the ability to develop strong school

cultures and facilitate the work of teachers in order to produce gains in student achievement (p.

91). Modifying and adding additional interview questions that address instructional leadership is

not sufficient when the process is flawed. The author suggests that a first step should be in

modifying the job description to reflect the principals primary role as that of instructional leader.

In addition, principals should possess requisite knowledge to dialogue with teachers, influence

teacher behavior, and impact student achievement as the instructional leader.

Running head: HOW TO IMPROVE INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP 1

Additionally, it is suggested that the selection of new principals should not simply be

promotion of internal candidates, but a result of internal and external searches for candidates that

can serve as instructional leaders. As such, teachers and administrators with knowledge of the

personnel selection process should be involved in the search for new administrators so that they

can evaluate candidates qualifications and perceptions about effective school culture. The author

suggests that if districts are interested in improving scores in particular subjects, they should seek

candidates with knowledge in these areas and use teacher leaders of these subjects to help assess

candidates. Hassenpflug (2013) suggests that candidates provide a writing sample at the time of

the interview and be asked about their current readings and professional affiliations so that the

selection committee can gain insight into the candidates suitability, critical thinking skills, and

what they value as professionals.

This article was an excellent read for me as an aspiring principal. It made me realize how

important it is to stay current with curricular and pedagogical issues. It was apparent that in the

current state of education, principals must not only be managers, but instructional leaders with

the ability to transform cultures, establish relationships, stay current with educational trends, and

be able to write to demonstrate their competence. I would recognize this article for aspiring

administrators.
Running head: HOW TO IMPROVE INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP 1

References

Hassenpflug, A. (2013). How to improve instructional leadership: High school principal

selection process versus evaluation process. Clearing House, 86, 90-92. Doi:

10.1080/00098655.2012.755147