Principals have problems too

THIS HAS reference to the article, ``The head that wears the crown'' (TheHindu, Education Page, March 20) by Mr. S. Dandapani. Unfortunately, the author has focussed more on the problems of teachers than those faced by principals. Here are a few suggestions which would hopefully bring a modicum of relief to harried principals.

In the effort to provide quality education, Principals are under duress as they not only have to ensure that the teachers improve their knowledge and teaching skills but also inspire the students to excel in curricular and extra curricular activities, which would earn laurels for the school.

The professional problems, that principals face everyday, are posed not only by teachers and students but also by their own inadequacies with respect to leadership skills. The appointment of talented and dedicated teachers, through effective selection procedures and admission of students, who are both diligent and disciplined, are key factors that enable a principal to administer a school without too many difficulties. When the teachers are efficient, their performance surpasses all expectations of their superiors. Likewise, if the students hail from a good background, they would be well-mannered and would not pose problems to their teachers or principal.

For a school to acquire a reputation as an institution of excellence, a strict procedure for recruiting the teaching staff must be followed. A candidate should be called for interview only on the basis of an impressive curriculum vitae, apart from prefessional experience. The recruitment procedure should at no point be lenient or have loopholes. All aspects of the candidate's ability - theoretical and practical - should be thoroughly assessed.

The article stated that while the ``principals return home everyday with headaches the teachers return home with a feeling of supreme satisfaction.'' Here, it must be pointed out that only those teachers who teach enthusiastic students can go home everyday without cares. But, for those handling slow learners, the story is different. Their task is difficult not only because the students are slow to pick up but also because most often they are non-cooperative and lack courtesy.

Moreover, teachers who are dedicated invariably arouse the envy of their colleagues, some of whom even try to thwart their good efforts in drawing out the best from their students. But a good way for efficient teachers to overcome such jealousy is to ignore it.

To be a successful principal, one needs to constantly upgrade one's knowledge, teaching and administrative skills, besides leadership qualities. It is also essential to establish rapport with the teachers and guide them in the discharge of their duties. This requires a blend of authority and flexibility. Being uncompromising on core issues and being lenient at other times would be an ideal way of managing faculty. Similarly, when a new policy is being introduced, the teachers should be apprised of the move if they are to ensure its proper implementation.

Principals, who are a blend of knowledge, talent and courtesy, receive a positive response from their staff. Indeed, some members of staff might even wish to emulate the good example set by their superior!

Pointing out a teacher's mistakes at a staff meeting, but being tactful not to mention names, is a good strategy to driving the message home and improving the quality of teaching.

I agree with the writer's statements about teachers. It is true that teachers are held in high esteem by their students, especially if they are taught well. But, the students can also have such regard for their principal, if they understand that the teacher is only implementing the principal's plans and upholding his lofty ideals. Thus, students could serve as a bridge between principal and teacher.

Every profession has its pros and cons. Hence, it would not be appropriate to assume that a particular profession alone is demanding. The head of any organisation has to face problems and gets frustrated, especially when he lacks leadership skills.

Though heads of educational institutions are talented individuals, even they face professional hurdles. But, in facing them lies the challenge. The result is a strengthening of determination, tenacity, and the powers to rationalise and make decisions. This also leads to personality improvement.

Baulking at problems only aggravates them. So, the heads of institutions should be courageous enough to face problems bravely and come up with solutions. Responding to challenges would then become a matter of routine and decisions would be taken spontaneously as well as in a relaxed manner.

It is a life-time dream of a genuine, enthusiastic correspondent to take his school onward to the pinnacle of excellence by improving the standard and quality of education. The staff, led by a genial principal, can make this dream a reality.

S. SAYIRAM

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