Description
Book SynopsisCreating Excellence: Becoming an A+ School is intended to be used by first year principals who have inherited a school that is failing or not achieving to a desired level, as well as by seasoned principals who are struggling to improve their school's academic performance. It can also be used effectively as a textbook for graduate students preparing for a career in educational leadership. The book is straightforward in its presentation of practices and strategies supported by research and theory. It has been written to share the knowledge base, impart the technical skills, and highlight the interpersonal skills recommended to enable educational leaders to create excellence and enable their school to become an A+ school. Within the chapters, tools, techniques, and concrete examples are offered. Educational leaders are encouraged to select, revise, and adjust proposed actions based on their own judgement and according to their local conditions, faculty, staff and other stakeholders. Reg
Trade ReviewDr. Vernon G. Smith captures the essence of 21st century Leadership. As he does so eloquently in all his roles as professor, statesman, and philanthropist. Dr. Smith evokes passion, commitment and honor. This book gives concrete direction to ameliorate current, and future leaders. I wholeheartedly endorse Creating Excellence: Becoming an A+ School. -- Sharon Johnson-Shirley, EdD, superintendent Lake Ridge New Tech Schools
If you desire to become a better leader in k-12 schools or you teach leaders in k-12 schools, I recommend you add Vernon G. Smith’s Creating Excellence: Becoming An A+ School to your leadership toolkit. Smith uses his many years as a principal, professor, and advocates for school change to guide the reader through the necessary attributes of a “Great” principal. The book is truly inspirational, highlighting how effective leadership can transform a school into a truly inspiring organization for all stakeholders. From creating a school philosophy to engaging parents, each chapter is a brilliant mix of theory and practice resulting in a roadmap that educational leaders can follow as they work to improve their school outcomes. I highly recommend this compelling book! -- Rochelle Brock, professor and chair, Educational Leadership & Cultural Foundations, University North Carolina Greensboro
Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements Chapter 1: Change and the Demands on Education Chapter 2: Philosophy of Education Why Address Philosophy of Education Need for a School Philosophy Leaders and Self-Examination Developing the School’s Philosophy of Education Philosophical Thought for Consideration Chapter 3: The Vision What is Vision Why School Vision Leadership Role in Visioning The Process Chapter 4: Climate and Culture What is School Climate The Importance of Climate The Desired Climate Role of the Principal What is School Culture The Principal’s Role Chapter 5: Recruitment and Development of Staff Recruitment and Selection Classroom Observations Professional Development Chapter 6: Rigor and High Expectations Why the Need for Rigor What is Rigor High Expectations and Rigor Higher Order Thinking and Rigor Creating Rigor in the Classroom Message for the Educational Leader Chapter 7: Engaging Parents for School Success The Importance of Parental Support and Involvement Ways to Involve and Empower Parents The Need for a School-Community Relations Plan Conclusion Chapter 8: Persistence and Drive – Never Give Up! Union Negotiations Understanding Resistance to Change Anticipated Areas of Resistance Dealing with Difficult Teachers Dealing with Unruly Parents Converting Unwilling Students Be the Change You Want to See About the Author
