Summer Is The Time To "Sharpen The Saw"

Effective Ways for School Principals to "Sharpen the Saw" This Summer

As school principals, our role as educational leaders demands continuous growth and self-improvement. Just as a saw becomes dull with use and requires sharpening to maintain its effectiveness, you too need to invest in your personal and professional development. The summer break presents a valuable opportunity to reflect, recharge, and enhance your skills. Here are four effective ways to "sharpen the saw" this summer:

1. Reflect and Refine:

Use the summer break to reflect on the previous school year. Take the time to evaluate your successes, challenges, and areas for improvement. Consider gathering feedback from your staff, students, and parents. Reflecting on your experiences will help you identify areas that require attention and provide insights for refining your strategies. Use this knowledge to set goals and plan for the upcoming year.

2. Engage in Targeted Professional Development:

Summer is an ideal time to engage in professional development opportunities that align with your goals and aspirations. Seek out conferences, workshops, and seminars that focus on areas such as instructional leadership, educational technology, curriculum development, or student well-being. Explore online courses or webinars that provide flexibility in terms of scheduling. Continuous learning will equip you with the latest research, trends, and best practices in education.

3. Foster Collaboration and Networking:

Effective school leadership thrives on collaboration and networking. Use the summer break to connect with your peers, both locally and globally. Join professional organizations, educational forums, or social media groups where you can exchange ideas, seek advice, and share experiences. Engaging in meaningful conversations with other principals will broaden your perspective and help you discover innovative approaches to common challenges. Collaborative partnerships can also pave the way for future professional development opportunities or joint projects.

4. Embrace Personal Renewal:

While dedicating time to professional growth is crucial, pay attention to the importance of personal renewal. Take advantage of the summer break to relax, recharge, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Spend quality time with loved ones, pursue hobbies, read books for pleasure, or engage in physical exercise. Prioritizing self-care will replenish your energy levels, enhance your overall well-being, and equip you with the resilience needed to face the demands of the upcoming school year.


As a school principal, investing in your personal and professional development is vital to enhancing your leadership skills. The summer break offers a valuable opportunity to "sharpen the saw" and prepare for the challenges ahead. Reflect on your experiences, engage in targeted professional development, foster collaboration, and embrace personal renewal. By dedicating time to these areas, you will be well-prepared, rejuvenated, and ready to lead your school toward more tremendous success in the upcoming academic year.