Description
Book SynopsisThe Other Side of the Desk explores the world of the principal with stories that capture readers' attention and moves them through the daily life of a school leader. Humorous and heart-wrenching memories fill each page as the author retells the stories that challenged her and affected her daily life as the principal of an elementary campus. Tareilo's experiences as a principal ranged from dealing with difficult teachers and parents to stories that will touch the lives of any educator. She reveals the working world of the principal in a clear, and sometimes frank, language with the intent to bolster and support newly positioned principals and reignite the leadership fire for those with many years of experience. From beginning to end, The Other Side of the Desk invites readers into a leadership experience that will have them laughing, crying, and believing that they too can make a difference in the lives of children.
Trade ReviewHow do principals impact learning and school improvement? Are they superheroes with red capes? This book captures the heart and soul of leadership. Although principals face a multitude of tasks and may feel like they are being asked to 'leap tall buildings in a single bound,' Tareilo points out that successful leaders are fellow learners who are constantly engaged with others in efforts to improve schools. Tareilo captures the essence of leadership that matters in this book. The wisdom that is shared serves as a guide and springboard for reflection and positive action. Put it on your must-read list. -- Betty Alford, professor and chair, Department of Secondary Education and Educational Leadership, Stephen F. Austin State University
Education leadership has long been characterized by a 'disconnect between what is taught in preparation programs and what practitioners need to be able to do in their schools.' Tareilo's The Other Side of the Desk successfully closes this gap. Tareilo is an expert with the use of metaphors, scenarios, and voice to effectively tie principal behaviors and actions back to practice. As a professor working in preparation programs, I say 'finally.' -- Theodore B. Creighton, professor of educational leadership and policy studies, Virginia Tech; former executive director of the National Council of Prof
The Other Side of the Desk is superb! It embodies the powerful reflective practice of school leadership as only a caring and committed principal could convey. Tareilo's book is at times joyful, at times whimsical, and at times heartbreaking, yet always focused on a sound message of hope and resilience. Aspiring school principals, as well as veterans, will be treated to an insider's 20/20 view of a champion for kids walking the walk of school leadership. This is a must-read for anyone in the school business. -- John Leonard, professor in the doctoral program, Department of Secondary Education and Educational Leadership, Stephen F. Austin State Univers
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Foreword Chapter 2 Know Thyself Chapter 3 Wearing the Red Cape Doesn't Make You Superman Chapter 4 Building a School Vision or How I Learned to Play with Lincoln Logs Chapter 5 Once a Teacher, Always a Teacher Chapter 6 My Mama Said…Loving the Kids Despite the Parents Chapter 7 I Didn't Go to Law School and Neither Did You Chapter 8 Shepherding the Pups: Helping First-Year Teachers Chapter 9 It's Lonely at the Top Chapter 10 Tonto Rode Beside the Lone Ranger, Not Behind Him Chapter 11 I'm Supposed to Know How to Do What Chapter 12 Somebody Has to Be in Charge and They Chose You Chapter 13 And Then There Are Some…
