How should a principal address a first-year teacher's distress due to a department coordinator undermining her grading practices?

Holding a meeting with the coordinators and the teacher to clarify roles is a proactive approach that fosters open communication and collaboration. By convening such a meeting, the principal can facilitate a constructive dialogue that allows the first-year teacher to express her concerns while also enabling the department coordinator to explain their perspective. This not only helps in addressing the immediate issue but also sets the stage for a clearer understanding of expectations and responsibilities among all parties involved.

Furthermore, this collaborative approach can help build a supportive environment for the new teacher, which is essential for her professional development and confidence. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork and shared understanding in educational settings, allowing for potential solutions to arise that meet the needs of both the teacher and the department as a whole. This not only resolves the current distress but also strengthens the overall dynamics of the department, ultimately benefiting the educational experience for students.