As we celebrate National Principals Month, it’s the perfect time to recognize school leaders' vital role in making Project Based Learning (PBL) a reality. PBL is transformative, bringing authentic and meaningful experiences to students, but this change would not be possible without the support and leadership of principals who champion innovative teaching and learning practices. Today, we highlight four reasons why we deeply appreciate principals who embrace PBL and help guide their schools on this journey.
1. They Are Committed to Providing Students With Authentic Learning Experiences
Principals who support PBL believe in giving students the opportunity to engage in real-world, meaningful work. They understand that students thrive when learning is relevant to their lives and connected to issues that matter to them. By embracing PBL, these leaders are committed to transforming their schools into spaces where inquiry, exploration, and problem-solving come alive. Their belief in creating an environment where students tackle complex challenges not only fosters academic growth but also helps students develop essential success skills—such as critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability—preparing them to navigate an ever-evolving world. In doing so, they shape young people to become thoughtful, engaged citizens and lifelong learners.
In the video "Leading PBL with Purpose," Jeanette Vinson, Principal of Alexandria City Public Schools, shares how Project Based Learning (PBL) has empowered her school to engage all students effectively. She highlights the transformative impact of PBL in creating memorable "lightbulb moments" that inspire a deeper understanding of learning.
2. They Build Learning Communities Around a Shared WHY
Starting a Project Based Learning (PBL) initiative can feel daunting, raising questions like “Where do you begin?” and “How do you generate excitement?” While many seek a step-by-step guide, experienced school leaders know that each school’s journey is different. As Lisa Mireles and Cris Waldfogel explain, “Schoolwide PBL implementation is not a checklist of things to be done. It’s more of a mindset coupled with a set of instructional and leadership practices that center leaders, teachers, and students as learners.” (Getting Started with PBL: Tips for School Leaders). This mindset emphasizes the importance of flexibility and continuous learning in implementing successful PBL practices.
These principals take a thoughtful approach to schoolwide PBL implementation, recognizing that fostering a culture of inquiry and reflection is as important as the projects themselves. They align with Simon Sinek's philosophy of starting with “Why,” believing that “when we are at our best, we are not trying to do what we think we should do; we are trying to do what we believe we must do.” True transformation occurs when students, teachers, and leaders embrace their roles as learners. A clear "Why" creates a shared vision that motivates and unites the entire community in the learning journey.
3. They Support Their Teams Through Their PBL Journey
We know that implementing PBL is a long-term commitment—it takes time to develop, refine, and perfect. Principals who champion PBL understand that this journey requires patience, support, and continuous learning for their entire school community. They provide their teachers with the professional development, time, and resources they need to design and facilitate impactful projects. These leaders are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and work alongside their teachers, knowing that sustained PBL success comes from a shared vision and collaborative effort. Their dedication to their teams ensures that everyone feels supported and encouraged, even when the process feels challenging.
As Principal Michael Pellegrino shares in this interview, "As an administrator, you can't be afraid to jump on the emotional rollercoaster with the staff. When you’ve been doing so well in the past, you’re nervous. There’s handholding. There’s an understanding that things are going to be clunky. Once teachers see students self-initiate, they start to see the fruits of their labor."
4. They Foster Family and Authentic Expert Involvement in Learning Experiences
PBL principals understand that education doesn’t happen in isolation—it thrives through connections with the broader community. These leaders actively find ways to engage families and bring in community experts, creating valuable partnerships that strengthen the bonds between schools and the wider community. By involving families, PBL principals ensure that students have support systems that extend beyond the classroom, fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility for learning. They create opportunities for PBL showcases and PBL nights, where students can present their projects to the community, highlighting their learning and achievements. Inviting local professionals, industry experts, and community leaders into the learning process provides students with real-world perspectives and mentorship opportunities.
In our booklet “An Intro to Project Based Learning for Parents & School Communities," Janet, a parent of a high school student in a PBL school in Sausalito, CA, shares, “We have been blown away by the passion, creativity, depth, and commitment our daughter and her group members have shown in their projects.”
Leading the Way for Project Based Learning
At its core, PBL is about empowering students to take ownership of their learning, and principals who champion this approach are empowering their entire school communities. Launching a successful PBL initiative requires a holistic shift in how we think about teaching, learning, and leadership.
As we celebrate principals this month, we offer our deepest gratitude to those who have embraced the challenge of leading their schools through the exciting and transformative journey of Project Based Learning. Your leadership, commitment, and vision are helping to shape the future of education, one meaningful project at a time.
Happy National Principals Month!
