What should a principal do first to address declining participation in an after-school tutoring program?

The most effective initial step for a principal addressing declining participation in an after-school tutoring program is to analyze data to understand why students aren't participating. This approach is grounded in a data-driven decision-making model, which emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying issues before implementing changes.

By analyzing participation data, surveys, or feedback from students and parents, the principal can identify specific barriers that prevent students from attending. These barriers could include scheduling conflicts, lack of awareness about the program, or even dissatisfaction with its content. Gaining a thorough understanding of these factors allows for strategic planning and ensures that any subsequent actions, such as marketing efforts or changes to program hours, will be more focused and effective in addressing the real obstacles to participation.

Once the principal has a clear understanding of the issues, they can design targeted interventions, such as adjusting timings or increasing awareness, that will likely lead to increased engagement in the tutoring program. This method prioritizes informed action, making it a crucial first step in the improvement process.