Handbook of Instructional Leadership

Book excerpt: Updated Edition of Bestseller! Build a learning community of teachers and students through mastering the art of effective leadership! The first edition of this classic text was based on a landmark study in which the authors surveyed over 800 K-12 teachers to find how the best principals encourage teacher growth and professionalism. The answers provided conclusive evidence that the most successful principals act as instructional leaders who advocate teacher development that enhances students′ learning. The updated and expanded second edition presents new research by the Blases, along with the most recent research and insights to support the text′s groundbreaking theory. Successful instructional leaders inspire their staff to develop "professional learning communities" dedicated to effective teaching practices. New to the second edition is an in-depth analysis that shows principals how to achieve this goal. Also new are additional figures, models, and reading lists that enrich the text′s original findings. Time-tested practices of instructional leadership are still central features. Principals can use these keys to success to: Build teachers′ trust through continual communication Encourage teachers to continue their self-improvement efforts Motivate teachers with constructive feedback Promote and participate in reflective practices Support and encourage teachers′ professional development Encourage your teachers to be their best through supportive collaboration and communication. Practice real instructional leadership and develop a "professional learning community" in which effective teaching promotes continued learning.