The tools (working drafts) found on this page have been designed to support the implementation of the 2021 Iowa Standards for School Leaders, which took effect July 2021. Please note that while implementation of the new standards is required, these tools are OPTIONAL for use.
The 2021 Iowa Standards for School Leaders (ISSL) derive from the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (2015). They are shaped by several key ideas, anchored in research, that are also reflected in the tools:
The 2021 ISSL...
are grounded in positive school leadership--an optimistic view of leadership, one that focuses on human potential, growth, and support in conjunction with a focus on educational rigor and accountability;
focused on strengths-based leadership and schooling--people have several times more potential for growth building on their strengths rather than fixing their weaknesses; and
take a holistic view of leadership--the indicators in each of the columns paint a general picture of leadership performance in that category of effectiveness. They do NOT comprise a check list nor should they be treated as such.
Understanding the Levels of Performance in the Progressions
This video clip from author and researcher Cy Wakeman helps to explain the nature of evaluation within the progressions and how a leader can move between performance levels based upon new situations that the leader encounters as the result of innovation (like A.I., for example) and new developments. Developing in these areas and being effective in others may be perfectly fitting and appropriate!
Supervisor/Principal Coaching Conversation
Key Elements of Performance Review Process Represented in video
Initial unpacking of standards and self-reflection by principal
Identifying potential goal area for the IAPDP
Coaching for next level leadership around Standard 3