Paying it Forward: The Power of Principal Mentorship BY DR. REBECCA HORNBERGER
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n this two-part series, we will explore the profound impact principal mentorship has on growing strong and effective future building leaders. In this issue, we will examine mentorship research and hear from voices in the field. In the upcoming winter issue, we will delve into how mentoring can elevate not only the mentee’s practice, but also that of the principal mentor. As educational leaders, principals are often called upon to serve as mentors to aspiring leaders. This mentorship might take place as the culmination of a principal preparation program or as part of a structured program to support principals who have just taken on new roles as building leaders. Regardless, it is critical that principal mentors understand the power they have to influence the career trajectories, and leadership practices of their mentees. Further, by utilizing specific strategies and methods, mentors have the opportunity to not only develop the mentee, but also to nurture their own professional growth. THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTORSHIP The role of the principal has grown significantly, with a shift toward viewing instructional leadership as a key factor for school and student success. However, more traditional responsibilities of the principalship are still expectations as well (discipline, scheduling, budget, etc.). Thus, it is critical that aspiring leaders have support and direction as they learn to function effectively in all of these roles. Scott (n.d.) advocates for mentorship because it “enhances
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performance and increases retention” of new principals in the following ways: • Mentoring helps principals learn how to reflect on how they do their job and understand their leadership style and development needs. • Mentored principals are better able to develop instructional focus, clear missions, and increased collaboration that can lead to improved student performance. Further, the Southern Regional Education Board (2007) emphasized the importance of high-quality principal preparation that includes mentorship. They stated, “Schools constantly need strong leaders adept at strategies that motivate people and elevate achievement for all groups of students. Today’s new principals need to hit the halls running, ready to lead their staff to accelerate the improvement of teaching and learning.” WHAT HIGH-QUALITY MENTORSHIP LOOKS LIKE Research shows that good mentors provide an opportunity for highquality experiences within a school-based setting in which aspiring leaders tackle authentic challenges to student achievement. They should have the opportunity to lead real change in teaching and learning. Further, constant feedback and coaching from mentors as mentees conduct this work is critical to the growth and success of the aspiring leader (Southern Regional Education Board, 2007).
