- Lately, we have received a large number of pressing questions from our readers. So this week, we are going to tackle more than one, including everything from profanity from a principal (it happens) to what happens behind the scenes when checking references!
I am a Christian working in a public school. Yesterday, at a parent meeting, I was taken aback by my principal’s use of profanity, especially in front of the parents. I would like to approach him in love and talk to him about it. Is this a good idea?
Yes—go ahead and have the conversation.
The fact that you’re pausing to pray and process before approaching speaks to your heart and character. You’re not just reacting—you’re responding carefully and that makes all the difference.
If you have a relationship with your principal, lean into that. Most leaders I know want to do well by their teams and communities, and sometimes they aren’t aware of how their words land, especially in emotionally charged moments. A calm, private conversation gives space for clarity and growth on both sides.
When you do talk with him, speak from your experience:
“When you said ____, I noticed the reaction in the room and felt concern for how it might have come across to families.”
Keep it focused on impact, not intention. And if the door opens, offer support. Sometimes people just need someone to help them see another way to lead.
This kind of conversation isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. And it’s a beautiful example of speaking the truth in love, which is what we’re called to do—especially in the mission field of public education.
You’ve got this. I’m praying for your courage, your words, and the fruit that comes from your faithfulness.
I am applying for teaching positions at other schools. If another principal calls my current principal for a reference check, what does that look like? What kinds of questions are asked? Can they ask my principal anything, or does the law limit the questions that can be asked?
Great question—one that reflects wisdom and intentionality as you navigate your next steps.
As a principal, I always appreciate a heads-up from teachers when a reference check might be coming. It provides context and allows me to consider a thoughtful response, rather than being caught off guard. While it might feel awkward, letting your principal know you’re exploring other opportunities is a sign of professionalism and maturity. Most leaders understand that not everyone stays in the same place forever—life changes, new doors open, and God leads us in different directions.
When I’ve received reference calls, the questions have ranged from how a teacher collaborates with a team to how they engage with students and families. I’ve also been asked about professional development recommendations and, almost always, “Would you rehire this person?”
Legally, reference conversations—like interviews—must avoid certain protected topics (such as marital status, health conditions, or anything discriminatory). Most principals are trained to keep their responses professional, fair, and grounded in job-related observations.
Above all, remember this: how you leave matters just as much as where you go. Walk in integrity, speak truth with grace, and trust that God is already preparing the right place for you to serve next.
Do principals really read teachers’ whole goal submissions, or do they just kind of scan to see if we did it?
What a great—and honest—question!
Here’s the truth: it depends on the principal. But for many of us, yes, we really do read your goals. Not just to check a box, but to give us a window into what matters most to you as an educator. They help us understand where you’re growing, what you’re hoping for, and how we can better support you along the way.
That said, it’s also fair to acknowledge that during the busiest seasons, some leaders may scan more than study—but even then, the effort you put in is not wasted. A thoughtful goal stands out. It tells your story, shows your growth mindset, and invites collaboration. And when it’s time for mid-year check-ins or evaluations, those goals often guide our conversations.
So yes, we notice. Keep writing with intention—not just for your principal, but for yourself. You are investing in the teacher you’re becoming, and that matters more than a rubric ever could.
We want to hear from you! No question is too small or insignificant—submit your honest thoughts and hard-hitting questions about school leadership below!
This bi-monthly blog, written by principal Jessica Cabeen, answers teachers’ tough and unfiltered questions about administration with honesty, transparency, and a heart for unity.
Don’t just wonder—ask! And then stay tuned, your anonymous question might be featured in a future blog post.
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One Response
I was frustrated by the silence of Christian Educators on the topic of grade inflation. I tried to make up for it by writing in Teacher of Vision but that effort was rejected, yet I found an association of Christian Schools whose magazine has twice published on the topic. I taught at a school over three years before quitting regarding the pressure to inflate grades. The previous director did not pressure me so but his successor did. Cheating was rampant at this school and I could have had better looking grade distributions if I ignored it but instead I made it my mission to defeat cheating at every turn and to teach at grade level as much as possible, unlike most if not all the other teachers. I have quit other jobs as well over this matter, finding myself generally alone in grading accurately. I looked for support in Christian Educators but have heard nothing about it from any other teachers.