Transforming a School: A Principal's Journey

The speaker shares her journey from being a student in Philadelphia to becoming a principal at Strawberry Mansion High School. She describes the challenges faced in low-performing schools and the transformative changes implemented to improve conditions. Emphasizing leadership, accountability, and love for students, she highlights the importance of creating real schools that provide hope and opportunities for children in poverty.

What was the principal's initial reaction when she first introduced herself to the students?

• She was angry and a little nervous.

• She was calm and composed.

• She was indifferent.

• She was overly excited.

What did the principal find when she first arrived at Strawberry Mansion High School?

• A well-organized and clean environment.

• A school with high academic performance.

• A school with locked doors and poor lighting.

• A school with a welcoming atmosphere.

What was one of the first actions taken by the principal to improve the school environment?

• Hiring more teachers immediately.

• Decorating bulletin boards with positive messages.

• Increasing the number of school events.

• Reducing the school hours.

What was the principal's approach to excuses for the school's poor performance?

• She blamed the students for the issues.

• She accepted them as valid reasons.

• She ignored them completely.

• She addressed them through professional development.

How did the principal ensure that students' individual needs were met in the classroom?

• By reducing the number of teachers.

• By extending school hours.

• By focusing on small group instruction.

• By increasing homework assignments.

What is the principal's 'real secret' for keeping Strawberry Mansion moving forward?

• Reducing the number of school days.

• Strict discipline and punishment.

• Focusing solely on academic achievements.

• Loving the students and believing in their potential.

Why does the principal sing 'Happy Birthday' to students despite not being able to sing well?

• To fill time during lunch.

• To entertain the staff.

• To make the students feel special.

• To practice her singing skills.

What core values does the principal remind the students of every day?

• Focus, tradition, excellence, integrity, and perseverance.

• Honesty, punctuality, respect, and kindness.

• Discipline, hard work, success, and achievement.

• Creativity, innovation, teamwork, and leadership.

What is the principal's message to students if nobody told them they loved them today?

• Focus on your studies.

• Try harder next time.

• You are on your own.

• Remember, I do, and I always will.

What does the principal believe is necessary for schools serving children in poverty?

• They should have more sports activities.

• They must be real schools providing knowledge and training.

• They should focus only on academic results.

• They should have fewer rules and regulations.