Thomas E. Petri: “Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 1131, expressing support for the designation of the week of April 18…”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 1131, expressing support for the designation of the week of April 18 through 23 of this year as National Assistant Principals Week. The successful operation of an educational institution requires competent administrators. An assistant principal, sometimes called a ``vice principal'' or a ``deputy principal,'' assists the principal in the general governance and leadership of a school. Assistant principals are often responsible for student discipline, for classroom observations, for teacher evaluation and supervision, for facilitating parent meetings, for maintaining schedules, and for handling logistical matters. Additionally, the assistant principals frequently serve as testing coordinators; they assist in training staff on procedures related to standardized assessment as well as to account for testing materials. In addition to these duties, assistant principals are instructional leaders. Assistant principals are members of the school's administrative team who interact with virtually every sector of the school community including support staff, instructional staff, students and parents. As a result of being the center of activity, they are able to foster positive relationships and resolve conflicts among all stakeholders throughout the school community.”