Category: Leadership

It’s Time for Districtwide Teaming and Dreaming

In Team Makers Laura Robb and Evan Robb examine the power of collaboration and the visioning that can empower educators to move away from tired practices and embrace new ideas that help transform schools into active learning centers, says principal and NBCT Rita Platt.

A Roadmap for Success in Teacher Leadership

Adventures in Teacher Leadership is brief yet packed with how-to’s for any situation a teacher leader might encounter. Practical and concise, this book written by two State TOYs has resources for new and veteran teacher leaders alike, says new leader Michelle Voelker.

How to Inspire and Connect with Your Staff

Throughout Putting Teachers First, Brad Johnson supports his strong belief that a positive relationship between leader and teacher is essential in successful schools. He shares a myriad of ways to make that relationship happen, writes international ed leader Brad Latzke.

How Leaders Cultivate Positive Schools

Steve Gruenert and Todd Whitaker have added to their series of books on school culture with this practical, readable and well-researched work that speaks of the commitment to creating and sustaining a positive learning environment, writes school leader Jack Ferrante.

Questions for New and Future School Leaders

If you’re thinking about a transition to school leadership, The Aspiring Principal 50 is a must read, writes educator Stacey Knighton. The book’s reflective format allows the reader to think about themselves as an instructional leader and prepare for the key interview.

The Human Side of Changing Education

Julie M. Wilson explains how to lead educators through change and also looks at how leaders can sustain their effort by taking her readers on a leadership version of The Hero’s Journey. Principal Michael Whisler particularly liked her Strengths-based Conversation script.

Introspective Questions to Amplify Your Leadership

Veteran principal and multi-book author Baruti Kafele takes school leaders on a self-reflective journey to answer his title question by exploring 35 focused and intentional guiding questions. Education leadership professor Frank J. Hagen recommends taking the trip.

Design Thinking for School Leaders

After explaining design thinking, Alyssa Gallagher and Kami Thordarson detail the roles and mindsets school leaders need to adapt as they move beyond traditional thought processes and ignite positive change. Educator Brian Taylor recommends the book’s strategies.

A Leader’s Guide to Boost Student Learning

If your goal is to improve curriculum, instruction, and assessment in your classroom, building, or district, then read Six Steps to Boost Student Learning. Education consultant Anne Anderson notes the concise, focused book is filled with resources.

How to Lead Change in Your School’s Culture

In Leading School Change, Todd Whitaker focuses on strategies to successfully navigate cultural changes, using specific examples. Educator Laura Von Staden particularly likes his coverage of how standardization has as a cost, often holding back the best teachers.