The Administrative Role in an Accountability Network: A Developmental Conceptualization

Abstract

Americans have always viewed education as an instrument for the common good as well as for individual enhancement. Today, with chronically low student achievement scores, this view has been questioned by the populace. School leaders have come under close scrutiny concerning district and/or building operations Local citizens have not only called for teacher accountability in the classroom, but have also increased the accountability call for administration as they demand evidence of school excellence amidst increased property taxes. Although educators have received the brunt of the accountability exchanges, basically a function of increasing educational expenditures and decreasing student achievement scores, responsibility for educational success or failure does not rest solely on the shoulders of educators. Citizens need to acquire a true understanding of accountability and become part of an effective accountability network. The administration must then assume the critical role in establishing a workable accountability network to initiate continuity of operations leading to school success. The questions then become: (1) What is accountability in education? (2) What is an effective accountability network? (3) What leadership role does the principal play in the accountability process?