In the walkthrough process, what is the first step an administrator should take?

In the walkthrough process, the initial step an administrator should take is to prepare for the walkthrough. This preparation is crucial as it sets the groundwork for effective observation and feedback. It involves defining the purpose of the walkthrough, establishing specific focus areas aligned with the school’s goals, and reviewing relevant data or previous observations. This thorough preparation ensures that the administrator has a clear understanding of what to look for during the actual walkthrough, allowing for more targeted observations that can inform practice improvements.

Starting with preparation helps ensure that the subsequent steps, including conducting the walkthrough and gathering data, are meaningful and aligned with the overall goals of instructional improvement within the school. Such groundwork enhances the overall effectiveness of the walkthrough process and ultimately leads to more productive conversations during post-conferences.