Description
Book SynopsisThe Power of Experience: Principals Talk about School Improvement is a guide for principals, both aspiring and established, who hope to make a measurable difference in the achievement of all students, and who strive to create a positive, safe, and student-centered learning environment in their schools. Gleaned from interviews with more than fifty principals who have been either instrumental in bringing a school to US Department of Education National Blue Ribbon status or who were identified as National Distinguished Principals by the National Association of Elementary School Principals, this critical source draws on the wisdom and experience of school leaders from across the nation and from select locations around the world. From Kenya to California, Alaska to Wisconsin, these principals reflect great diversity but unity of purpose: reaching and teaching all children by building exceptional schools through exemplary leadership. Whether new to the field or a veteran principal, readers w
Trade ReviewLinda Wagner has written a practical guide for principals based on the expertise of exemplary professionals in the field. This is a powerful foundational guide for aspiring principals and a rich refresher for sitting principals. -- Julie A. Vitale, Assistant superintendent, Monrovia Unified School District, Monrovia, CA
School leaders need guidance as they strive to make instructional improvements. This book is filled with advice from award winning principals. What a great tool! I would recommend it to any principal who hopes to create positive school improvements. -- Gwen Gross, fifteen-year superintendent and author of three leadership books for educators
This book is a 'must read' for all educators who plan to positively influence, nudge, and support school cultures and academic environments. A very practical and insightful book that should remain on a nearby shelf for regular referencing by new leaders, as well as by veterans, in order to face the challenges of educating our youth today. -- Deborah L. Collins, deputy superintendent, Monrovia Unified School District, Monrovia, CA
I wish that The Power of Experience had been in my collection when I began my career as a principal, but it will be one of my most treasured resources from this point forward. From beginning to end, the book is full of essential information that all school leaders should know. Dr. Wagner's writing is straight-forward and easy to read, and the information is practical and inspiring. -- Cindy Lathrop, principal, Monroe Elementary School, Monrovia, CA
Principals are the key to a school's success. Leadership counts and Linda Wagner's book clarifies what leadership means to a principal. This book will be invaluable to any school principal, beginner or experienced. -- Ken Noonan, past member and past president, California State Board of Education, and thirty-year superintendent, Superintendent Emeritus, Oceanside, California and former President, State Board of Education
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1. Characteristics of Effective Principals 2. Guiding Improvements in Teaching and Learning 3. Building a Culture of Continuous Improvement 4. Using Data to Guide Instruction 5. Personnel: Hiring and Retaining Only the Best 6. Encouraging Site Based Leadership 7. Making Parents a Part of the Team 8. Working with the Central Office 9. Managing Your Time 10. Great Ideas from Outstanding Principals Appendix: Tools for Principals Book Recommendations from Blue Ribbon and Distinguished Principals List of Study Participants About the Author
