Description
Book SynopsisImagine a school in which gathering around the table to have meaningful conversations is commonplace and unencumbered by roles and positions. Such discourse is not only meaningful, but also significant, purposeful, valuable, filled with intention, and result oriented. There is a spirit of trust that affords an interchange of thoughts and ideas that promote dialogue and heart-to-heart communication. Meaningful Conversations invites readers who earnestly desire high achievement for all students in all American schools to the table for a nine-course meal of food for thought that, altogether, satisfies educators’ hunger for comprehensive and transformative school improvement. Addressing critical issues in contemporary schools—including leadership, school culture, curriculum, and assessment—this book offers conversation pieces that describe success standards for schools and conversation points that specifically address the unique responsibilities of district leaders, administrators, and teachers.
Trade ReviewWith the introduction of conversation starters and reflective questions, Meaningful Conversations provides school leaders with the tools necessary to begin meaningful change. True change begins with leaders asking the hard questions and then engaging all in quality conversations. That journey begins with Meaningful Conversations. -- Greg Murry, superintendent, Conway Public Schools, Conway, AR
In Meaningful Conversations, Webster-Smith, Albritton, and Kohler-Evans provide practical possibilities for interrogating and holding powerful conversations with all stakeholders to assist with the daunting work of school leaders to improve schools. -- Lloyd Sain, director, leadership and secondary teacher development, Little Rock School District, Little Rock, AR
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction 1.Leadership 2.Organizational Structure and Resources 3.School Culture 4.Family and Community Support 5.Curriculum 6.Instruction 7.Assessment 8.Professional Growth and the Continuous Improvement Cycle 9.Conclusions and Effective Planning About the Authors
