What is the School Leadership Team?

All about the School Leadership Team!

What is a School Leadership Team?

A School Leadership Team (SLT) is a group that makes rules for a school and ensures there are resources to support those rules.

Roles of School Leadership Teams:

  • Check how well a school's programs are helping students succeed.
  • Help make important decisions for the school.
  • Encourage teamwork and a friendly school environment.

Who Are the Members of a School Leadership Team?

An SLT includes:

  • The Principal
  • President of the Parent Association/Parent-Teacher Association
  • Leader of the Teachers' Union

Other members are elected parents and staff, with equal numbers from each group. High school SLTs must also have at least two students. Community organization members can join but don't change the parent-staff balance.

Role of an SLT:

  • Create the school’s Comprehensive Educational Plan (CEP).
  • Evaluate the principal’s ability to work with the SLT and report to the superintendent.
  • SLTs don't hire or fire staff but must be consulted before appointing a principal or assistant principal.

How Many People Are on an SLT?

An SLT must have 10 to 17 members, with equal numbers of parents and staff, as outlined in their rules.

How Do SLTs Make Decisions?

SLTs use consensus-based decision-making, where all members contribute to the final decision. This ensures everyone's opinions are heard, promoting cooperation and respect.

Laws and Regulations Governing SLTs:

New York State Education Law Section 2590-h requires every New York City Public School to have an SLT. Chancellor’s Regulation A-655 provides guidelines for forming effective SLTs in all New York City public schools.