Who is the Building Leader?: Commentary on Educational Leadership Preparation Programs for the Future

Abstract

In this commentary, the Dean of the Kansas State University College of Education states that the job of a school leader is more complex and more demanding than ever before. As institutions of higher education contemplate the question "Who is the Building Leader?," defining the roles and responsibilities of the school building leader is critical. Some considerations might include having: knowledge and skills requiring depth and breadth of school leadership; knowledge of issues related to curriculum, teaching, learning, and assessment; and skills in managing the school building, including communication, use of social media, working with parents, and community engagement. While no one enters an institution of higher education preparation program strong in all areas, the program must build skills in all areas. Teams of professionals focusing on different needs can accomplish more than any one individual, so when groups of emerging leaders from a particular school or district come together as a cohort to work through a program together, this provides opportunities to reflect deeply on their particular needs, challenges, and strengths. This is exactly what Kansas State University's partnership academy model represents as it builds networks through discussion and reflection. These important components are key to any model preparing school leaders for the future.