A school leader must decide which extracurricular programs to eliminate due to budget constraints. What should be the first consideration?

The first consideration when deciding which extracurricular programs to eliminate due to budget constraints should be whether the program contributes toward achieving the school's vision. This focus ensures that decisions align with the broader educational goals and mission of the school. A program that supports the school's vision is likely to have a lasting impact on the student body, contributing not just to individual student growth but also to the overall culture and aspirations of the school community.

While factors like student participation, popularity among parents, and past performance in competitions are important, they do not hold as much weight if the program does not align with the school’s fundamental goals. For instance, a program might be very popular or have a high level of participation, but if it does not fit into the school's long-term vision for student development or academic excellence, its relevance diminishes.

By prioritizing the school’s vision, leaders can make more strategic decisions that ultimately benefit the entire student body and uphold the institution's purpose, rather than simply responding to trends or immediate feedback from the community.