Leading With Passion and Knowledge

Book excerpt: "The most important work of the school leader is to promote profound levels of learning in students and faculty, but only principals who know how to promote their own learning on the job can foster the learning of others. Here′s how!" —Roland S. Barth, Founding Director Harvard Principals′ Center "Finally, a book for administrators that validates their role in the area of action research! All administrator preparation programs should use this book." —Margarete Couture, Principal South Seneca Central School District, Interlaken, NY Become the "head learner" in your school by engaging in action research! While much has been written about the effectiveness of action research for improving the practice of teachers, few resources exist for leading principals through the process to strengthen their professional development and their role in school improvement efforts. Best-selling and award-winning author Nancy Fichtman Dana guides principals in identifying and exploring areas of interest for research, including staff development, curriculum development, individual teachers, community/culture building, leadership skills, building management, and school performance. With a step-by-step approach, this resource: Helps principals develop a question, collect and analyze data, and share the results of their inquiry with school faculty, the district, and the broader education community Includes numerous examples of actual principal inquiry to illustrate each step of the research process Provides exercises to guide principals through their own inquiry projects Use this proven method of professional development to continually cultivate your craft and improve school performance!