Description
Book SynopsisThe school accountability movement's focus solely on improving standardized test scores is dehumanizing. There is no standardized child. In the rush to quantify, evaluate, and ostensibly improve the American educational system, we have forgotten that education is complicated. Any attempt to distill it into a simplistic measure will fall short and will compromise the nobility of the work.How can teachers continue to do the incredibly challenging work of effective education in an environment that can be downright damaging?We can save the soul of education by resisting the dehumanization of students. Teachers can shield children by embracing social-emotional learning, building trust, and displaying compassion. There is no quick-fix to creating a nurturing relationship. There is no single data point that can measure it. Teachers must commit to being present, paying attention, maintaining consistency, engaging in hard work, practicing humility, and working together.Angels and Superheroe
Trade ReviewWhile I’ve met some remarkable educators during my 40-year career in education, none bring more passion and thought to their vocation than Jack Jose and Krista Taylor. Not only are they the epitome of being student-centered, they constantly challenge themselves to become better by learning from the young adolescents they serve. Drawing from the principles of legendary educator Maria Montessori and applying them to a contemporary urban high school setting, their approach transcends traditional pedagogy in a way that is profound, personal and engaging. In the process, they don’t just prepare their students to master academic concepts—they prepare them for life. -- Mary A. Ronan, superintendent, Cincinnati Public Schools, 2009-2017
The world of education, both public and private, has been derailed by testing and expectations that have little to do with creating schools as healthy microcosms of society. Schools that realize this create a path for young people to become whole, healthy, and compassionate human beings. Jack and Krista are doing that big work and they are doing it with a truly diverse population. They are among the most dedicated and brave educators I know. They lead with heart and wisdom. -- Marta Donahoe, co-founder of Clark Montessori High School, Cincinnati, Ohio and founder and former executive director of CMStep, the Cincinnati Montessori Secondary Teacher Education Program
Krista and Jack have amassed a compendium of useful information assembled in an informative, engaging, and compelling manner. Combining the perspectives of an administrator and classroom educator, their willingness to share personal narratives along with timely, relevant research and insights make this an invaluable and accessible read for educators, parents, and anyone with an interest in improving schools. -- Paul Wesselmann, aka “The Ripples Guy,” writer, leadership trainer, educational consultant
In these challenging times today we certainly need Angels and Heroes to keep us energized to support dynamic student learning and help young people overcome life’s challenges. Whether it is called “grit” or “persistence,” educators need to model the positive approach that Principal Jack Jose and Intervention Specialist Krista Taylor have taken in their writing and actions. This new book is on my “best reading list” for teachers! -- Rae L. White, Chair of the Department of Education at Muskingum University
In these days of high stakes testing and accountability ratings, it's refreshing to read the words of Jack Jose and Krista Taylor. Their work reminds us education is more than labeling and data trends—it's also taking care of our students and nurturing their dreams. Add the ideas of this book to your list of best practices. When the student comes first, learning will follow. -- Mark White, Superintendent of New Albany Schools, New Albany, Ohio and co-author of What’s In your Space: 5 Steps for Better School and Classroom Design and Leading Schools in Disruptive Times
Few professions, if any, provide more lasting value to society than teachers. A good teacher changes lives and makes the world a better place. In Angels and Superheroes, Jack and Krista provide practical advice for how to do this important but challenging work in an even more effective and meaningful way—even in circumstances that conspire against it. -- Craig Weber, author of Conversational Capacity: The Secret To Building Teams That Perform When The Pressure Is On
Table of ContentsForeword- Paula Polk Lillard Acknowledgments Introduction Chapter 1: The Problem, The Solution, and Our Goal Chapter 2: Create a Culture for Academic Respect and High Standards Chapter 3: Building a Caring and Supportive Community in the Classroom and Beyond Chapter 4: Create a Climate of Interpersonal Respect Chapter 5: Discover How Misbehavior Reveals Unmet Needs Chapter 6: Design Instruction to Create an Inclusive Environment for All Learners Chapter 7: Utilizing Real World Experiences to Enhance Learning Chapter 8: Practice What You Preach—Modeling Effects Real Change Bibliography About the Authors
