The Meadows Principal Improvement Program: A Preservice Field Based Model for the Preparation of Principals

The Meadows Model for preservice preparation was designed to speed the process of preparing educational leaders in Texas. Previous programs allowed teachers seeking administrative licensure to complete the program at their own pace. The Meadows Model shortens this process to 15 months. This model incorporates a number of specific features, which have had a significant impact on the process of preparing administrators: (1) selection for the program on a competitive basis; (2) internship as a significant and early part of the program; (3) inclusion in a cohort group at the start of the program; (4) focused initial study on the principalship and related skills; (5) specialized study in communications and intergroup dynamics; (6) an introduction to the culture of the principalship; and (7) participation in staff development activities with practicing principals. This paper lists several initiatives to look at the impact of the Meadows Model over the years of operation. These include a case study approach, annual evaluation, postprogram design, and open-ended responses on questionnaires. Conclusions drawn from the studies and recommendations for the future of the program are presented. (Contains 10 references.) (DFR)