Invite interested teachers to meet weekly to discuss articles or books that all participants have read in advance. Discussing such readings is a good way to begin talking about significant issues in a collegial setting. To keep the tone nonhierarchical and genuinely collegial, find a teacher to chair the meetings. Another good way find meaningful issues is simply to ask teachers what questions they would like to pursue, what frustrations they are experiencing, and how they would like to see their school change. This is a risky strategy for the principal, but if he or she cannot be vulnerable, the likelihood for sustained change is not strong.
Dramatic change is slow and difficult.
But if schools are to excel, faculties must continue to learn and grow with their students. Clearly, a collegial approach that empowers teachers and lets them share the responsibility for instructional leadership holds promise for the future.