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EDL 500: Strategic Leadership

This course examines how data analysis, and the application of evidenced-based goals and actions influence school culture, student achievement, and staff performance. Students examine school data to identify gaps in student achievement, collaborate with stakeholders to develop a strategic plan, identify evidence-based strategies to improve student and staff performance, and utilize distributive leadership principles to support collaboration and engagement among staff members. 


Course Learning Outcomes


  • Evaluate organizational guiding principles as they relate to supporting an inclusive school culture for all stakeholders. ​​
  • ​Utilize results from data analysis to drive key strategic decisions
  • ​Plan evidence-based strategies for change to improve outcomes for all student populations.
  • ​Utilize distributive leadership principles to support collaborative efforts among staff members.
  • ​Design professional development opportunities that address prioritized performance challenges affecting student achievement.



Principal Quality Standards

Standard I

Principals demonstrate organizational leadership by strategically developing a vision and mission, leading change, enhancing the capacity of personnel, distributing resources, and aligning systems of communication for continuous school improvement.

Standard II

Principals demonstrate inclusive leadership practices that foster a positive school culture and promote safety and equity for all students, staff, and community.

Standard III

Principals demonstrate instructional leadership by: aligning curriculum, instruction and assessment; supporting professional learning; conducting observations; providing actionable feedback; and holding staff accountable for student outcomes.

EL QUALITY STANDARD 5.9: Educators are knowledgeable about CLD populations.

EL 5.12 Quality Standard IV: Educators are knowledgeable in the teaching strategies, including methods, materials, and assessment for CLD students



Artifacts

The Strategic Leadership course provided me with a comprehensive understanding and application of three Colorado Principal Quality Standards (PQS) and two English Learner Quality Standards (ELQS). Through research, analysis, and practical application, I have effectively demonstrated my ability to lead change, foster inclusive environments, and drive continuous improvement in the educational setting. Moreover, the artifacts presented throughout the course, such as the Neurodiversity Week Presentation and the Northridge Elementary READ plan data, serve as tangible evidence of my knowledge, skills, and commitment to meeting the diverse needs of all learners. I will use my knowledge and experiences in this course to have a positive impact on student learning, school culture, and community engagement, embodying the principles of excellence, equity, and inclusivity.

Artifact 1: NRE READ plan Data

PQS I and ELQS IV

Represents: Compilation of data from multiple sources in order to support and align communications for strategic plan.

Evidence of: Creation of a strategic plan based on student data and continuous improvement.


Artifact 2: Neurodiversity Week Presentation

PQS II and ELQS I

Represents: Work to further school culture that prepares students to live in a diverse society.

Evidence of: Commitment to meeting the needs of all students. 

Evidence of: Professionalism and relationship building


Represents: Culture of ongoing professional learning

Evidence of: Leadership in planning for and delivering professional learning


Represents: Ability to apply concepts of DEI in professional development and student learning.

Evidence of: Knowledge and understanding of research based differentiation strategies.


Artifact 3: Stages of Concern Survey

 PQS IB and PQS IID

Represents: Work to collaborate with stakeholders

Evidence of: Proficiency in utilizing the Stages of Concern matrix to implement change initiatives


Represents: Systems for sharing in leadership decisions

Evidence of: Collaboration to identify stakeholders and plan for school-wide change




Artifact 4: Modification Strategies

PQS III

Represents: Culture of continuous improvement and excellence

Evidence of: Proficiency in designing a system for continuous feedback and coaching

Represents: Plan to model effective instructional practices 

Evidence of: Understanding the importance of reflection and coaching in teaching and learning