Seven Steps to Effective Instructional Leadership

Motivating book that makes a person feel like they could become a principal, as long as they are to work very hard.

Elaine McEwan's book is one of the most direct and useful tools I have found for today's principals. The book provides clear descriptions about quality education and a means to self evaluate current practices. I shared the book with my superitendent and we used the material during a summer administrative retreat. The text and the material were accepted by principals from both the elementary and secondary levels. Elain McEwan has captured the aspects of "Quality Education" in a useable and friendly book. Elaine first brings the focus back to the building principal and the understanding that we are the most important piece of school improvement. The author understands the need for management; however, emphasizes educational, instructional leadership. Dr. McEwan shares the belief as stated in Warren Bennis's writings that the school leader needs to have vision and commitment. Elaine further explains that school leaders need to be knowledgable about! learning theory, curriculum, and effective instruction. The text book provides outlines of the desired components. Identifying desired learning results is a primary step of this books. Elaine McEwan reaffirms the statements of Larry Lezotte in his book "Learning for All." She states, "When our students are successful, we are successful." The author understands we can never expect our staff to grow and expand if we are not supportive and leading. Create direct ways to encourage growth and be a learner with your team. Elaine visits and challenges the reader on creating a culture and climate for maximum learning. She discusses the importance of communicating the vision and raising expectations of staff and families. Elaine McEwan has developed a handbook that should be part of your daily activities. I have personally been through Covey training, been a candidate and a facilitator at the Indiana Principal's Leadership Academy (IPLA), trained! on "The Instructional Process," TESA, and "! Choice Theory" and find this books a summary of solid educational approaches. The end of the chapter summaries and descriptors created a new awareness and raised my own expectations. I believe Elaine McEwan is a leading current author for the practicing principal in the field of education. Elaine believes in schools and has the vision of classrooms becoming better and better. You will always be glad that this book is a part of your working collection.