‘This indispensable volume provides a wealth of answers from the country′s foremost educators and researchers.’
—Dennis Shirley, Professor
Boston College Lynch School of Education, MA
Keys to building socially just schools where achievement soars
Research shows that students′ sense of belonging in their school communities is critically linked to academic achievement. This ninth and final book in The Soul of Educational Leadership series offers practical strategies for promoting socially responsible school cultures that foster greater student engagement and democratic values.
A joint publication with the American Association of School Administrators and the HOPE Foundation, with contributions from renowned educators Bonnie Davis, Linda Skrla, Randall Lindsey, and others, this book explores the key concepts of respect, equity, and character, and examines tough issues such as:
- Reflecting on our backgrounds and assumptions
- Modeling socially responsible behavior
- Teaching students to discern injustice
- Enacting a zero-tolerance policy toward bullying
Students will shape tomorrow based on what they learn today. This compact guide equips educators to implement democratic practices, act in socially just ways, and impart democratic values to the citizens of the future.
Table of Content
Preface
About the Editors
About the Contributors
1. Respect – Bonnie M. Davis
2. Social Justice: Focusing on Assets to Overcome Barriers – Randall B. Lindsey, Delores B. Lindsey, and Raymond D. Terrell
3. Becoming an Equity-Oriented Change Agent – Linda Skrla, Kathryn Bell Mc Kenzie, and James Joseph Scheurich
4. Are Women Prepared to Be School Superintendents? An Essay on the Myths and Misunderstandings – C. Cryss Brunner and Yong-Lyun Kim
5. Leading Schools of Character – Marvin W. Berkowitz
6. Teaching Social Responsibility – Sheldon H. Berman
7. Zero Indifference and Teachable Moments: School Leadership for Diversity, Inclusion and Justice – Mara Sapon-Shevin
8. Getting Kids Ready for School – Raising the Village – Paul D. Houston
Index
About the author
Paul D. Houston has established himself as one of the leading spokespersons for American education through his extensive speaking engagements, published articles, and his regular appearances on national radio and television. Formerly executive director of the American Association of School Administrators from 1994 to 2008, Houston has served as a teacher and building administrator in North Carolina and New Jersey. He has also served as assistant superintendent in Birmingham, Alabama, and as superintendent of schools in Princeton, NJ; Tucson, AZ; and Riverside, CA. Houston has served in an adjunct capacity for the University of North Carolina, Harvard University, Brigham Young University, and Princeton University. He has served as a consultant and speaker throughout the United States and overseas, and he has published more than 100 articles in professional journals.