Full Description
"There are other books on school culture, but the tell-it-like-it-is, no-holds-barred style of writing makes this a book I would recommend to others."
—Frank Buck, Curriculum & Special Education Supervisor
Talladega City Schools, AL
"The clear, concise themes for each chapter are backed by research and provide an understanding of what needs to be done to improve school climate. This book could be used by a building or district team study to measure the cultural temperature, by teacher teams to start a grassroots movement to improve school climate, or by reflective leaders who want to continuously improve their organizations."
—Edward J. Drugo, Principal
Latrobe Elementary School, PA
Improve school culture and relationships to ensure peak performance by students and staff!
This practical how-to handbook clearly defines what school culture is, where it comes from, how it works, and why it is critically important. The author provides a total package with all the tools necessary for developing a school culture that maximizes student performance, empowers staff members, welcomes and engages parents, and energizes community support. Readers will find:
A profile of a healthy school culture
Tips for assessing how your school measures up
Ways to spot warning signs and avoid pitfalls
Frequently asked questions and common concerns about creating a positive school culture
Through concrete, real-world examples, authoritative insights, and useful explorations, this compact volume for principals and administrators demystifies the concept of school culture and points the way toward building a strong, collaborative school community.
Contents
Preface: Why This Title
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Introduction: Culture Shock
1. School Culture Under the Microscope: What It Is, How It Works, and Why It's So Important
2. The Many Phases and Faces of School Personalities
3. Profile of a Healthy School Culture That Works for Everyone
4. How Do You Know It's Time to Tune Your Bagpipes? Signs of a Toxic School Culture
5. Assessing the DNA of Your School's Culture
6. Avoiding "Fratricide" (Death by Friendly Fire)
7. A Dresser of Sycamore Trees: The Leader's Role in Shaping the School's Culture
8. Don't Teach the Canaries Not to Sing: Creating a School Culture That Works for All Students
9. Use All the Gifts (Assets): Creating a School Culture That Works for Staff
10. The Dancing Bear Metaphor: Creating a School Culture That Works for Parents and the Community
11. A Results-Oriented Work Environment (ROWE): Linking Culture and Achievement
12. No Deposit, No Return: Culture Building Made Simple
Resource A. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Resource B. FSWs: Frequently Stated Worries
Resource C. What Others Say About Organizational Culture
Resource D. Related Readings: The Short List
Index
