Leadership for Social Justice and Democracy in Our Schools
- Alan M. Blankstein - Founder, Solution Tree and HOPE Foundation, NYC
- Paul D. Houston - Center for Empowered Leadership
"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.
"A must read cover to cover! Each chapter presents a distinct insight and practical wisdom on a very complex issue. An exquisite blend of lofty ideals and practical application woven masterfully together!"
"This indispensable volume provides a wealth of answers from the country's foremost educators and researchers. The attention to the nitty-gritty, classroom-and-corridors dimensions of real change faced by real leaders is an especially welcome contribution to the literature."
"Promoting respect, justice, readiness and leadership—this book captures the salient issues so critical for schools today and for the future. A must-read book for every school leader to model socially just practices!"
"The book is full of inspiring, compelling, and practical essays, addressed to principals, superintendents, and other educational leaders--the people who are in the best position to restore the heart and soul to public education. Finally, here is acknowledgment that social justice and academic achievement are not mutually exclusive concepts. Highly Recommended."
"The 75 practical strategies here are grounded in highly regarded educational research, making this a helpful and current reference manual for best practices in science education. Recommended"
