Become a New Leader

Selection Criteria 2008-2009

The following Selection Criteria summarize the characteristics shared by every New Leaders principal and are the basis for all admissions decisions.

Belief and Urgency that All Students will Excel Academically

Demonstrate the belief that every student, regardless of background, can excel academically
Demonstrate a sense of urgency to achieve dramatic gains in student learning and close the achievement gap
Hold self and other adults accountable for ensuring high academic achievement for every student

Personal Responsibility and Relentless Drive

Hold self personally accountable for outcomes and results
Demonstrate relentless drive and determination to achieve outcomes and results
Exhibit willingness to engage in difficult conversations and make hard decisions
Exhibit resilience to overcome setbacks and remain constructive despite resistance or failure
Lead in a way that reflects stated values and beliefs
Demonstrate a commitment to urban school leadership and management

Results Orientation

Has a track record of achieving goals and results
Demonstrate and maintain a focus on goals and results
Demonstrate resourcefulness to achieve goals and results
Demonstrate willingness and ability to adjust strategies and practices in order to reach goals

Knowledge of Teaching and Learning

Demonstrate ability to drive dramatic improvements in academic achievement for all students
Provide evidence of ability to align objectives and instructional activities to students' academic goals
Understand and use a variety of instructional strategies to meet students' diverse learning needs
Assess student learning and use data to guide and modify instruction
Provide clear feedback to students and guide students in assessing their own learning
Demonstrate the ability to distinguish among poor, mediocre, solid and outstanding teaching
Articulate clear and compelling instructional expectations for classroom settings

Problem Solving

Project Management to Deliver Results

Articulate a clear vision and goals
Able to manage time effectively, prioritize, and organize strategies to reach goals
Multi-task and balance detailed steps with the big picture to ensure successful project completion
Delegate decision-making and authority in an effective manner
Monitor a project by assessing milestones and modify plans based on data

Adult Leadership

Mobilize adults to take action toward common goals
Develop clear direction and shared purpose that guides and unifies the team
Engage and empower others to take responsibility to achieve results
Make clear decisions while considering diverse perspectives to reach the best solutions
Demonstrate the ability to teach other adults and commit to adults' growth and development
Build effective teams to meet the needs of the task

Communication and Listening

Clearly articulate point of view, ideas and rationale
Possess written and verbal skills to communicate in a clear and concise manner, which is appropriate for and understood by intended audiences
Demonstrate poise, confidence and professionalism in diverse situations
Actively listen to and engage with others
Possess a leadership voice; inspire and lead through communication and presence

Interpersonal Skills

Successfully build relationships
Promote diversity in communication, understanding and engagement
Treat every adult and student with respect, dignity and understanding
Diffuse anger and find common ground to move people toward solutions
Exhibit confidence, competence and a sense of possibility, including when under pressure
Accurately read group dynamics to maximize individual strengths

Self-Awareness and Commitment to Ongoing Learning

Accurately identify technical and interpersonal strengths and areas for development
Reflect on experiences to grow and develop
Seek feedback and take action to develop personally and professionally
Demonstrate humility and willingness to continually improve
Demonstrate awareness of impact on and perception by others

Need Help with
your Application?

Email apphelp@nlns.org
or call 866-649-0701.