Berlin Principal Andrea Franke Transforms Struggling School Into Model of Success

In a remarkable turnaround, Andrea Franke has been recognized as Germany's top principal, receiving the prestigious German Teachers' Award for her exemplary leadership at the Willy-Brandt-Schule in Gesundbrunnen, Berlin. Under her guidance, this school, once facing closure, has evolved from a low-performing institution to a beacon of hope within its community.

Franke's tenure has been marked by significant achievements over nearly a decade. The Willy-Brandt-Schule, previously seen as a 'leftover school' struggling to attract students, has transformed into a sought-after educational institution. This year, the school recorded an unprecedented 130 first-choice applications for its seventh-grade class, despite lacking a gymnasium program.

Franke attributes the school's success to a collaborative approach, emphasizing a strong community spirit among staff and students. She actively engages her team, recognizing their contributions and fostering an environment where successes--big or small--are celebrated. Her leadership philosophy centers on 'making successes visible', which she believes is crucial for both student motivation and staff morale.

The German Teachers' Award committee highlighted her ability to create a positive culture within the school. This includes a commendable 'positive error culture', where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities rather than failures. Colleagues describe Franke as approachable, humorous, and open to criticism, qualities that have endeared her to both staff and students alike.

Franke's leadership is characterized by a commitment to inclusive education. At the Willy-Brandt-Schule, approximately 80% of the student body comes from non-German-speaking backgrounds, with many facing economic hardships. Despite these challenges, Franke has successfully attracted and retained skilled educators who are dedicated to their students' success.

In light of recent budget cuts affecting educational programs in Berlin, Franke continues to advocate for her students, ensuring they receive essential resources, such as a cafeteria that provides freshly prepared meals daily. This initiative is particularly crucial, as many students rely on school meals for nourishment.

Franke's approach to education emphasizes creativity and problem-solving. For instance, when faced with budget limitations for the cafeteria, she has sought innovative solutions to maintain quality services for her students. Her proactive attitude extends to various operational challenges, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to the school's mission.

Statistics reflect the positive impact of Franke's leadership; the dropout rate at the school has significantly decreased from 12.1% in the 2018-2019 academic year to just 3.2% today. Additionally, instances of absenteeism have halved, thanks to a strategic partnership with local agencies and consistent communication with parents.

The Willy-Brandt-Schule's focus on career readiness further exemplifies Franke's commitment to her students. The school has established partnerships with multiple organizations, providing students with essential career guidance and opportunities to explore various vocational paths.

In conclusion, Andrea Franke's leadership at the Willy-Brandt-Schule serves as a model for educational success, demonstrating the power of community, innovation, and resilience in transforming schools facing significant challenges.