Management by Walking Around (MBWA) Is a Real Thing. There Is No Substitute for Visibility … and It Actually Facilitates More Effective Leadership.

Principals learn a great deal about their school by walking around. In the mornings, they learn whether the substitute has shown up. They learn if students are dressed appropriately. They see the students arguing and are able to prevent a fight. They notice the spill on the floor and are able to keep students from slipping. They notice the teacher who is rushing to make a couple of last-minute copies and are able to help cover their class. There is no way a leader can effectively manage the building from the confines of their office.