Creating Excellence

This book is intended to be used by principals who have inherited a school that is failing or not achieving to a desired level.

Vernon G. Smith served 20 years as a practicing principal where he was successful in improving the academic achievement of students. Currently he is the Coordinator of the Educational Leadership Program at Indiana University Northwest.

Preface Acknowledgements Chapter 1: Change and the Demands on Education Chapter 2: Philosophy of Education Why Address Philosophy of Education Need for a School Philosophy Leaders and Self-Examination Developing the School's Philosophy of Education Philosophical Thought for Consideration Chapter 3: The Vision What is Vision Why School Vision Leadership Role in Visioning The Process Chapter 4: Climate and Culture What is School Climate The Importance of Climate The Desired Climate Role of the Principal What is School Culture The Principal's Role Chapter 5:Recruitment and Development of Staff Recruitment and Selection Classroom Observations Professional Development Chapter 6: Rigor and High Expectations Why the Need for Rigor What is Rigor High Expectations and Rigor Higher Order Thinking and Rigor Creating Rigor in the Classroom Message for the Educational Leader Chapter 7:Engaging Parents for School Success The Importance of Parental Support and Involvement Ways to Involve and Empower Parents The Need for a School-Community Relations Plan Conclusion Chapter 8:Persistence and Drive - Never Give Up! Union Negotiations Understanding Resistance to Change Anticipated Areas of Resistance Dealing with Difficult Teachers Dealing with Unruly Parents Converting Unwilling Students Be the Change You Want to See About the Author