4 Tried-and-True Ways Principals Can Strengthen School Culture

The daily habits and systems of school leaders have a profound influence on the experience of everyone within a learning community. From students and staff to families and visitors, the culture of a school is often shaped by the intentions and practices of its principal. There are a variety of approaches that seasoned school leaders use to cultivate a stronger, more connected environment—and any principal can apply them.

Alexa Sorden, a founding principal at a successful elementary school in the Bronx, knows that principals who are regularly seen and present in classrooms, hallways, and shared spaces often build greater trust and credibility with students and staff. Time spent at recess, in passing periods, or alongside teachers during lessons can foster relationships and reinforce a sense of unity and shared purpose across the school.

Creating simple, accessible systems for emotional and mental support also has the potential to dramatically improve the school environment. Mathew Portell, former principal at Fall-Hamilton Elementary in Nashville, Tennessee, implemented quick check-ins for students with trusted adults and developed tap-in and tap-out protocols that allow teachers to step away for a brief moment when they need it most. These practices can help everyone in the school community feel seen, supported, and safe.

Former principal of Pearl-Cohn Entertainment Magnet High School Sonia Stewart believes that when classroom expectations and language are consistent across grades and subjects, students often feel a greater sense of predictability and belonging. School leaders who collaborate with their teams to establish common goals and practices often find that both students and staff experience a stronger sense of cohesion and alignment.

Schools where leadership is shared tend to foster greater ownership and investment. Dan St. Louis, who served as principal at University Park Campus School in Worcester, Massachusetts, for 10 years, set up staff meetings that encouraged open dialogue and decision-making, as well as student-led conferences and initiatives, to promote a collaborative, team-based culture.

Through intentional choices that emphasize visibility, support, consistency, and collaboration, principals can help shape a school culture where connection and growth are at the center.

To learn more about the research cited in the video, check out the resources below.

• Matti Taajamo, Aini-Kristiina Jäppinen, and Kari Nissinen’s study examining essential elements of school culture as interpreted through principals’ voices (2023)
• Rebecca L. Wolfe and Elizabeth D. Steiner’s research report on how K–12 principals can support student success and well-being (2023)
• Jason Grissom, Anna Egalite, and Constance Lindsay’s review of the research literature on how principals affect students and schools (2021)