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:
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Finalize Report Cards & Progress Reports and Cumulative Cards:
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Ensure all grades and comments are accurately entered and reviewed.
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Schedule printing and distribution (consider digital options as well).
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Address any outstanding incomplete grades or student concerns.
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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.
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Promotion/Retention Decisions:
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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.
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Complete all necessary reviews and documentation for student placement for the upcoming year.
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Communicate decisions to parents/guardians in accordance with school policy.
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Review and Update Student Records:
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Ensure all student information is current and accurate in the student management system.
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Archive records for graduating/transferring students according to district guidelines.
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Complete and Submit Dual Enrollment Forms:
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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.
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Assess Curriculum Implementation:
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Gather feedback from teachers on curriculum effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
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Begin initial planning for curriculum adjustments for the '25-'26 school year.
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Standardized Testing Wrap-Up:
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Ensure all state and local assessments have been completed and submitted.
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Analyze preliminary results to inform instructional planning for the next year.
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Communicate general results to parents/guardians as appropriate.
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Staffing & Scheduling:
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Finalize Staff Assignments for '25-'26:
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Confirm all teaching and support staff placements for the upcoming school year.
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Communicate assignments to staff members.
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Set Summer Schedules:
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Determine staffing needs and schedules for any summer programs (e.g., ESY, enrichment).
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Communicate summer schedules to parents and involved staff.
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Professional Development Planning:
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Gather input from staff on professional learning needs for the '25-'26 school year.
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Begin outlining potential PD opportunities.
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Grant Management:
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REMINDER: Ensure all requirements for current grants are met, including progress reports and financial documentation.
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REMINDER: Obtain necessary signatures for any new or continuing MST (Math, Science, Technology) grants or other funding applications.
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Begin planning for grant applications for the '25-'26 school year.
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Communication & Community:
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Frequent Communication with Parents:
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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).
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Communicate details about field days, moving-up ceremonies, and final school events.
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Provide information regarding summer learning opportunities or resources.
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Distribute '25-'26 School Calendar:
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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.
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Thank You Notes & Appreciation:
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Facilitate opportunities for students and staff to thank volunteers, community partners, and parents for their support throughout the year.
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End-of-Year Celebrations:
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Plan and execute appropriate end-of-year celebrations for students and staff.
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Transition Support:
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Implement strategies to support students transitioning to the next grade level or to middle school.
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Facilitate communication between outgoing and incoming grade-level teachers.
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Facilities & Operations:
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Inventory and Ordering:
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Conduct an inventory of supplies and materials.
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Place orders for necessary supplies for the '25-'26 school year.
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Technology Check-Out/Return:
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Manage the process for student and staff technology return and inventory.
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Plan for any necessary technology maintenance or upgrades over the summer.
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Facility Review:
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Conduct a walkthrough of the school building to identify any maintenance or repair needs over the summer.
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Communicate these needs to the appropriate district personnel.
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Summer Cleaning and Maintenance Plans:
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Coordinate with custodial staff regarding summer cleaning schedules and projects.
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Important Dates & Deadlines:
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Create a comprehensive list of all end-of-year deadlines (e.g., report card submission, dual enrollment forms, grant applications).
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Share this list with relevant staff and monitor progress.
Self-Reflection & Planning:
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Take time to reflect on the successes and challenges of the past school year.
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Identify key priorities and goals for the '25-'26 school year.
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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!