The result is a series of scores and a report outlining the observations of trained assessors. Candidates can use these scores to work on their weaknesses and to sell themselves to local school councils. Councils can use them to compare candidates and seek a match for their particular needs. Until now, councils have had no hard data on candidates to consider. School districts where superintendents pick principals have found that assessment centers opened doors for candidates outside the old boys' network.
Principals are pivotal to school improvement.
Helping councils select outstanding ones is one of the most important investments the school system and reform community can make. The school system and reform community should continue to explore the issue of principal evaluation as well. Adding hard data such as test scores and attendance rates is a plus. However, the particulars seem aimed more at symbolism than serious evaluation. For example, no matter how much progress a school makes, a principal can't get the top rating in two of the test score categories unless at least half of his or her students score at or above national norms.