As school leaders head back before staff arrive, those first few days can feel both energizing and isolating. But that solo time is incredibly valuable. Here’s what the latest research and top experts say great principals should focus on in these early days: 1. Recenter on Vision and Strategy Michael Fullan reminds us in The Principal that coherence is the foundation of effective leadership. •Revisit your school’s vision and mission •Identify 2–3 high-leverage focus areas for the year (such as engagement through cooperative learning or strengthening Tier 1 instruction) •Ask yourself: “If this year is a success, how will students, staff, and families experience it differently?” @MichaelFullan1 2. Prepare the Physical and Emotional Environment Todd Whitaker has said that “the culture of a school walks in the building before the principal does.” •Walk every hallway, classroom, and shared space •Refresh key areas with intention—this might mean reorganizing a staff lounge or updating student celebration boards •Ensure your building reflects excellence before anyone else steps inside @ToddWhitaker 3. Design Your Feedback and Coaching Systems Robyn Jackson’s work (Never Underestimate Your Teachers) emphasizes the importance of structured support and growth. •Draft your classroom walkthrough plan and feedback calendar •Build coaching tools aligned to your schoolwide focus areas •Prepare your first five feedback conversations before school even starts @Robyn_Mindsteps 4. Make the Welcome Personal Elena Aguilar’s coaching research points to the power of connection. •Write a short, personalized welcome note to each team member •Record a brief message or video sharing your excitement and vision for the year •Design a meaningful welcome-back experience that reminds your team they matter @brightmorningtm 5. Study the Right Data Paul Bambrick-Santoyo and Douglas Reeves both stress the importance of early, focused data work. •Review not just test scores but engagement, attendance, and discipline patterns •Identify a few key indicators to track weekly •Let your early data drive your first PD sessions and instructional priorities @DouglasReeves The best leaders don’t wait for the team to arrive to start leading. These first few days are your chance to set the tone, clarify the path, and prepare the runway so your staff can take off. #LeadershipMatters #InstructionalFocus #SchoolCulture #PrincipalsLeadFirst #VisionDrivenLeadership