Voices of the Nation: How Can a Principal Support Activities?

Susan Bechtol, Principal
Churchland High School
Portsmouth, Virginia

As a high school principal, I believe it is imperative to show support for the athletic programs and the performing arts programs. The students work hard on the fields, in the gym, in the pool and in the music, art and dance studios. The students believe that the principal being at their activities adds value to what they are doing. Our administrative team has a weekly schedule so we are at as much as we can. We are out every night of the week if that’s what it takes. It has to be a priority, and I make it one.

Another thing I do is talk to the kids all during the day about their upcoming events or even about last night’s games or events. It is important to engage the students in conversation about their activities just like we do about their academic challenges. In our daily announcements we talk about what is happening that night and the next morning we congratulate those victories. One of the most rewarding experiences as a principal happens at athletic or concert events when the students want to introduce you to their parents. Our parents and the community partners really do appreciate the administrators supporting their students. I tell all the students that the best part of my days are all the evening sporting events and activities. Showing support for our athletic and performing arts programs is definitely the fun part of this job.

Stephen Broadwell, Superintendent
Willsboro Central School
Willsboro, New York

To be the most supportive, I believe a principal or superintendent​ need​s to find a way to say, “YES.” When our athletic administrator or drama director approaches with an idea, I always try to find a way to make it happen, whether i​t is traveling long distance to a tournament, flying our student actors around the stage for a production of Peter Pan, or allocating additional monies to help with a special project – find a way to make their idea work. As an administrator, having a proactive, positive, approachable attitude and a willingness to say “Yes” to ideas allows coaches and advisors to have the confidence to ask for the extras that allow ​schools to have quality ​programs that ​engage their students.

Mike Howard, Superintendent
Meadows Valley School District
New Meadows, Idaho

Young folks love to “strut their stuff.” For a principal or superintendent to attend events is huge in the students’ eyes. We also include a brief note of support in daily announcements at the school. The note is heard, sometimes repeated, but always acknowledged by the kids.

Another way for a principal or superintendent to support activities is to call or email the coach. Ask the coach to tell the kids, “great job.”

Another avenue of communication received by most parents and other adults in communities is the district newsletter. It does not take long to address an event with great adulation through a written note or article. And use names! Kids love to see something written about themselves or their friends.

I believe the best way to show support for these participants and the programs, however, is to attend practice or rehearsal sessions. They see you. You can sometimes get in conversations with adult directors and/or with the students. Stay awhile. Walk around if possible. Make eye contact. And enjoy!