Product Description

"Once again, Phil Schlechty demonstrates why I consider him to be one of the clearest minds in American education. He knows how important public education is to our democracy and has real ideas for making it better. This book is a must-read for policymakers at any level and for those who think and care about school improvement."
--Paul D. Houston, executive director, American Association of School Administrators

"Schlechty shares leading-edge insights and offers practical guidance to anyone who affects student learning. His suggestions are wonderful dialogue starters for educators searching for ways to make dramatic improvement in schools."
--Dennis Sparks, executive director, National Staff Development Council

In this visionary book, renowned educator Phillip Schlechty argues for change-adept school systems. He not only challenges educational administrators, teachers, teacher leaders, legislators, and policymakers to recognize the need for transformation, but also shows how they can grow into skillful leaders of lasting change. Shaking Up the Schoolhouse begins with an incisive discussion of the dangers and opportunities in reworking school systems. Drawing from decades of experience and from actual cases, the author describes the essential characteristics of change-adept organizations. He then presents a practical framework for helping teachers to overcome obstacles in the learning experience, from reviewing the competition to improving student engagement through more effective standards. Schlechty also focuses on empowering principals, superintAndents, and school board members as they struggle with structural and cultural change in their schools and communities.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #717792 in Books
• Published on: 2004-04-13
• Original language: English
• Dimensions: .77 pounds
• Binding: Paperback
• 272 pages

Review
"This book would no doubt intrigue those administrators who would like to learn more about one of the brightest minds in education." (Childhood Education, Winter 2007-2008)

Gerry House, president and CEO, Institute for Student Achievement, and former Superintendent of the Year
"I have worked with Phil Schlechty for over twenty years and I continue to learn from him. Shaking Up the Schoolhouse is filled with sound suggestions for school leaders, as well as practical suggestions for parents and politicians. Those familiar with Schlechty's work will find fresh and new insights in these pages."

From the Inside Flap
Charter schools, education cooperatives, home schooling, and private school vouchers have become increasingly common alternatives to the American public school system. As more and more communities search for different educational options, it becomes clear that public schools must learn to innovate if they are to fulfill their role in educating the nation's children and youth. In this visionary book, renowned educator Phillip Schlechty argues for change-adept school systems. He not only challenges educational administrators, teachers, teacher leaders, legislators, and policymakers to recognize the need for transformation, but also shows how they can grow into skillful leaders of lasting change.Schlechty begins with an incisive discussion of the dangers and opportunities in reworking school systems. Drawing from decades of experience and from actual cases, he describes the essential characteristics of change-adept organizations. He then presents a practical framework for helping teachers to overcome obstacles in the learning experience, from reviewing the competition to improving student engagement through more effective standards. In another distinct section, Schlechty focuses on empowering principals, superintAndents, and school board members as they struggle with structural and cultural change in their schools and communities. Shaking Up the Schoolhouse is a nuts-and-bolts resource that guides all types of educators through the complex--yet necessary--process of reform.