Project Based Learning for Building Administrators

Building administrators are key to successful Project Based Learning. Some teachers naturally take to PBL, but most teachers need principals and leadership teams to proactively support them in integrating PBL into their instructional routines. This page summarizes actions for building administrators to launch and sustain PBL.

Resource: PBL for Building Administrators slidedeck to adapt and share guidance and additional resources with your leadership team.

Form Your PBL Team and Set Goals and Expectations

1. Enlist lead teachers in working with you to assess needs and to develop achievable goals and fair expectations for PBL implementation:

• Example Goal: Every teacher attempts at least one project

• Example Expectations: Teachers use PBL planning and reflection templates; Projects address a minimum of four dimensions of the MPG/PREP PBL framework

2. Check in with lead teachers and staff to adjust expectations throughout the school year as conditions change.

3. Share goals and expectations with staff.

Tools: PBL Framework and Rubric; PBL Planning Templates and Resources

Reading: Why PBL is an Effective Option for Teachers

Put PBL in the Spotlight and On the Agenda

Present the why and how of PBL to staff:

• Include how PBL aligns with your school and PPS’ mission and values, graduate portrait, and instructional framework

• Include examples from your school if possible, invite teachers to share

• Show where to find the PBL Framework, planning tools, project examples

• Explain how to get feedback and approval for project proposals

• Include goals and expectations for implementation

Tool: Staff Presentation PPT Template

Readings: Amplifying the Role Effective Leadership Plays in Making PBL a Reality; 5 PBL Dos and Don'ts for Administrators

Build Culture of Student-Centered Learning

Celebrate, Showcase, and Highlight projects in staff meetings, conferences, public events.

Plan and support teachers in planning opportunities throughout the year for students to display and present their work in and outside of school.

Resources: Share Your Learning Website with Toolkits for Presentations, Student-Led Conferences, and Exhibitions