Action research is critical for student learning and school improvement. Action research is a continuous, systematic process in search of information and knowledge in which teachers are able to implement new practices and then reflect on their new teachings to promote school improvement. It is the process of identifying weakness or areas of improvement, formulation an action plan to resolving the problem, and implementing researched strategies to bring about the change, and evaluating their effectiveness. Just as teachers continue their growth through professional development, and using student data to help increase the depth of their teaching practice, the administrators, or instructional leaders, have the responsibility to help lead their school on improvement efforts in order to best meet the needs of the students and staff. This process of inquiry is intentional study of one's professional practice and eventually can become not only part of the leader's professional role, but of the entire school culture. (Dana, 2009)

  Fortunately, I have had the opportunity to work under very two very strong instructional leaders who have implemented action research consistently. They believed in always looking for ways to improve, and focusing on student data to drive their decisions. While reading through, I was able to reflect on so many professional experiences involving action research that I’ve been a part of, I just didn’t always recognize it as “action research” because it can be approached through so many different formats. Whether through district meetings, leadership teams, or professional learning communities, the process is still the same.  

Blogs serve as a great communication tool for educational leaders is many ways. It is a great way to communicate with parents and students about the great happenings during school, sharing fun videos, or funny stories, or even stories of great achievement among students and staff. Blogs also are a great way to communicate with parents the latest teaching practices going on in the building to keep parents up-to-date with how their children are learning in school. I also love how you have the ability to link to other helpful resources on the web. Blogs are interactive and engaging for all and the benefits are endless.