principal's coaching blog

by Mary Jo Aiken

 

Okay, here's a comprehensive end-of-year checklist tailored for our elementary school principals, keeping in mind some crucial reminders:

Academics & Records:

  • Finalize Report Cards & Progress Reports and Cumulative Cards:

    • Ensure all grades and comments are accurately entered and reviewed.

    • Schedule printing and distribution (consider digital options as well).

    • Address any outstanding incomplete grades or student concerns.

    • Be sure Cum Cards are updated before teachers leave for summer. Note any transfers to/from your school and be sure effective dates are included.

  • Promotion/Retention Decisions:

    • Be sure to complete Kindergarten readiness testing for your Pre-K students. Some school also perform Grade 1 readiness testing. The Brigance instrument is a valid tool for testing.

    • Complete all necessary reviews and documentation for student placement for the upcoming year.

    • Communicate decisions to parents/guardians in accordance with school policy.

  • Review and Update Student Records:

    • Ensure all student information is current and accurate in the student management system.

    • Archive records for graduating/transferring students according to district guidelines.

  • Complete and Submit Dual Enrollment Forms:

    • REMINDER: Verify all dual enrollment forms for the current year are completed, signed by all parties (students, parents, high school/college representatives), and submitted to the relevant institutions by June 1. Maintain copies for school records.

  • Assess Curriculum Implementation:

    • Gather feedback from teachers on curriculum effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

    • Begin initial planning for curriculum adjustments for the '25-'26 school year.

  • Standardized Testing Wrap-Up:

    • Ensure all state and local assessments have been completed and submitted.

    • Analyze preliminary results to inform instructional planning for the next year.

    • Communicate general results to parents/guardians as appropriate.

Staffing & Scheduling:

  • Finalize Staff Assignments for '25-'26:

    • Confirm all teaching and support staff placements for the upcoming school year.

    • Communicate assignments to staff members.

  • Set Summer Schedules:

    • Determine staffing needs and schedules for any summer programs (e.g., ESY, enrichment).

    • Communicate summer schedules to parents and involved staff.

  • Professional Development Planning:

    • Gather input from staff on professional learning needs for the '25-'26 school year.

    • Begin outlining potential PD opportunities.

  • Grant Management:

    • REMINDER: Ensure all requirements for current grants are met, including progress reports and financial documentation.

    • REMINDER: Obtain necessary signatures for any new or continuing MST (Math, Science, Technology) grants or other funding applications.

    • Begin planning for grant applications for the '25-'26 school year.

Communication & Community:

  • Frequent Communication with Parents:

    • REMINDER: Maintain consistent communication with parents/guardians regarding end-of-year activities, including dates, times, locations, and any required actions (e.g., permission slips, supply lists). Utilize various communication channels (e.g., newsletters, emails, website, phone calls).

    • Communicate details about field days, moving-up ceremonies, and final school events.

    • Provide information regarding summer learning opportunities or resources.

  • Distribute '25-'26 School Calendar:

    • REMINDER: Finalize and distribute the school calendar for the '25-'26 academic year to families and staff. Ensure it includes important dates such as holidays, school breaks, professional development days, and early dismissal days.

  • Thank You Notes & Appreciation:

    • Facilitate opportunities for students and staff to thank volunteers, community partners, and parents for their support throughout the year.

  • End-of-Year Celebrations:

    • Plan and execute appropriate end-of-year celebrations for students and staff.

  • Transition Support:

    • Implement strategies to support students transitioning to the next grade level or to middle school.

    • Facilitate communication between outgoing and incoming grade-level teachers.

Facilities & Operations:

  • Inventory and Ordering:

    • Conduct an inventory of supplies and materials.

    • Place orders for necessary supplies for the '25-'26 school year.

  • Technology Check-Out/Return:

    • Manage the process for student and staff technology return and inventory.

    • Plan for any necessary technology maintenance or upgrades over the summer.

  • Facility Review:

    • Conduct a walkthrough of the school building to identify any maintenance or repair needs over the summer.

    • Communicate these needs to the appropriate district personnel.

  • Summer Cleaning and Maintenance Plans:

    • Coordinate with custodial staff regarding summer cleaning schedules and projects.

Important Dates & Deadlines:

  • Create a comprehensive list of all end-of-year deadlines (e.g., report card submission, dual enrollment forms, grant applications).

  • Share this list with relevant staff and monitor progress.

Self-Reflection & Planning:

  • Take time to reflect on the successes and challenges of the past school year.

  • Identify key priorities and goals for the '25-'26 school year.

  • Begin preliminary planning for the school improvement plan.

This checklist is intended to be a comprehensive guide. Please adapt it to your specific school's needs. Hopefully, these reminders will guarantee a smooth and successful end to the school year!

Have a safe and blessed week!

2024-2025 School Year