It\u2019s no secret InternationalSchoolsReview.com hosts both positive and negative reviews of international schools. Recently, we were asked to reflect on why some schools receive glowing reports and others are burdened with descriptions warning perspective candidates to stay clear. More than one international school director has been quick to answer that poor reviews are simply the result of disgruntled employees, and the situation at the school is not as portrayed. Obviously, not everyone sees it this way, especially the disgruntled employees.<\/p>\n
To answer the question of positive versus negative reviews, we examined hundreds of school reviews and concluded that the quality of an international school, and the level of teacher, student and parent satisfaction is directly proportionate to the level of ethical conduct demonstrated by the administrator. Yes, it appears the school director exerts the strongest influence on a school\u2019s overall atmosphere and character.<\/p>\n
As we looked over reviews we noted that schools receiving poor comments under a particular director often received more positive comments when that administrator left the school. This equation also worked in reverse with some schools suddenly receiving negative comments shortly after the arrival of a new director. Looking at schools with all complimentary reports we discovered the reviewers almost always reflected positively on the director as the main figure responsible for creating the high level of satisfaction. No one said, \u201cThis is a great school and I feel valued even though the director is a shortsighted micro manager\u201d.<\/p>\n
Accepting that international school directors are ultimately responsible for setting the overall tone and tenure of a school, we at ISR decided to examine what school administrators should be doing to earn the respect of their staff and school community.<\/p>\n