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Criterion Five: Improving Instruction

Criterion five revolved around monitoring, assisting, and evaluating effective instruction and assessment practices. Along with Criterion 4 — Aligning Curriculum, this criterion identifies key aspects of the principal’s role as instructional leader tied to improving instruction. Criterion 4 deals with the “what” and Criterion 5 deals with “how.” The big idea of this criterion in addressing the “how” is instructional supervision and evaluation that promotes teacher growth and improved instruction throughout the building. 

Key Questions for Reflection

  • How am I instilling a growth-focused mindset around instruction among my staff?

  • In what ways does assessment drive instructional improvement in my school?

  • What does a results-oriented culture look like—and feel like—for teachers and students?

  • How am I differentiating support and feedback for teachers at varying levels of proficiency?

  • How can I ensure all teachers are effectively using student learning goals to improve instruction?

Quick Wins

  • Conduct regular informal walkthroughs to provide low-stakes feedback using your instructional framework.

  • Schedule monthly “instructional rounds” with teacher leaders to build collective capacity.

  • Recognize a “Strategy Spotlight” teacher each week for trying something new tied to your framework.

  • Provide bite-sized PD focused on high-leverage instructional strategies during staff meetings.

  • Use teacher planning or PLC time to co-analyze student work and identify next instructional steps.

AI Prompts


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Tech Tips

  • Use AI transcription tools (like the iPhone Notes app!) to capture and review coaching conversations.

  • Leverage video tools for teachers to record and reflect on their instruction.

  • Create a digital dashboard to track classroom observation cycles, feedback, and instructional goals.

  • Set up shared docs or a PLC Google Site for staff to archive student growth goals and resources.

  • Use interactive tools (like Nearpod, Pear Deck, or Formative) to model engaging instructional strategies in PD.

  • Create a Padlet where teachers can share what new tools they are using in their classrooms or want to try.

Examples of Proficient Behaviors

A proficient leader improves instruction by supporting teacher growth, monitoring instructional quality, and using an adopted framework to provide targeted feedback.

In practice, they:

  • Establish clear routines for both formal and informal observations.

  • Use the instructional framework to give feedback that is specific, actionable, and growth-oriented.

  • Link teacher efficacy to student learning outcomes, especially for historically underserved students.

  • Differentiate support based on teacher needs and goals.

  • Model instructional leadership by making learning visible and shared across the school.

Possible Evidence to Collect

  • Calendar showing walkthroughs, observations, and feedback meetings.

  • Observation and feedback forms using framework language.

  • Professional development plan focused on instructional practices and teacher growth.

  • Samples of student growth goals, mid-year check-ins, and end-of-year reflections.

  • Data showing improvement in instruction and/or student outcomes for a set of teachers.

  • Visuals showing alignment between professional development topics and schoolwide instructional goals

  • Lists of tiered supports or differentiated coaching plans based on teacher needs

Continued Learning


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The AWSP Learning Lab is our online learning platform with various courses, live and asynchronous options. Check out what is available to support you learning.

Explore the Learning Lab


  • Leverage Leadership 2.0: A Practical Guide to Building Exceptional Schools – Paul Bambrick-Santoyo
    A go-to manual for instructional leadership, including systems for feedback, coaching, and data-driven instruction. Includes concrete rubrics and sample schedules.

  • Results Now 2.0: The Untapped Power of Expectations – Mike Schmoker
    A compelling case for streamlining instructional focus and leadership, with an emphasis on simple, high-leverage teaching practices and leader follow-through.

  • Focus: Elevating the Essentials to Radically Improve Student Learning – Mike Schmoker
    Helps leaders prioritize what matters most: a coherent curriculum, sound lessons, and purposeful reading/writing strategies.
  • Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain – Zaretta Hammond
    Connects neuroscience to curriculum design and instruction.