Effective Education Demands Effective School Leadership
In North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), concerns about the education system have been rising, with fourth-graders struggling to read and write properly, and a significant decrease in the attractiveness of school principal positions in recent years [1]. SPD state parliamentarian Sonja Bongers has highlighted the urgent need for action, citing issues within the education system as a major concern [2].
One of the key areas Bongers has focused on is the salary structure for school principals and deputies. She has proposed a fair and school form-independent salary structure, suggesting that the salary should be based on the size of the school rather than its specific form [3]. However, there is currently no specific information available regarding current initiatives or proposals aimed at improving salary, equal opportunities, and attractiveness of school principal positions in NRW.
The North Rhine-Westphalia state program "Work-Life Balance & Care" aims to improve work-life balance for employees with caring responsibilities, reflecting broader efforts in NRW to enhance work environment conditions [1]. While this program is not specifically tailored for school principals, it underscores a commitment to creating a better work environment.
The region also places emphasis on vocational education and training, which might indirectly support educational leadership positions by fostering a stronger educational system [1]. GIZ, an employer in the region, is recognised for its commitment to vocational education, although this does not directly address school principal positions.
Improving the attractiveness of school principal positions generally involves enhancing salaries, providing equal opportunities, and developing professional development pathways. In Germany, these efforts are often part of broader educational reform initiatives aimed at improving teacher and principal retention and recruitment [4].
Bongers has also called for more opportunities for schools, suggesting a clear financial upgrade of deputy principal positions at primary schools and advocating for a uniform career path after A15(Z)/A16 for school principals and deputies [5].
The quality of a school's work in NRW is heavily influenced by its school principal. Successful school principals in NRW are both good educators and leaders, often demonstrating innovative approaches to education that are future-oriented [6]. Many schools in NRW are showcasing these innovative approaches, with courageous, innovative, and professionally acting school principals playing a crucial role in their success.
However, many school principal positions in NRW remain unfilled, and the education system is struggling to ensure equal opportunities and social justice for all children and young people [7]. In 2022, 11,385 school leavers in NRW did not receive a diploma, highlighting the need for urgent action [8].
As the education system in NRW continues to evolve, it is essential to address these challenges and work towards a more equitable and effective system that supports both educators and students. Consulting local education authorities or relevant government publications will provide detailed information on current proposals and initiatives aimed at improving the education system in NRW.
School parliamentarian Sonja Bongers in NRW emphasizes that improving the salary structure for school principals and deputies is crucial for the education system, suggesting a school form-independent salary structure based on the size of the school [3]. Additionally, Bongers advocates for more opportunities for schools and a uniform career path after A15(Z)/A16 for school principals and deputies [5], as part of a broader effort to enhance education-and-self-development opportunities in the region.
