Leading for Professional Learning

The practical tools and guidance school leaders need to effectively support teachers' professional learningFor educational leaders who recognize that the most important work occurring in any school happens in the classroom, this book provides practical guidance and insights in how school leaders can support teaching and advance learning for every student. Written in a clear and accessible style, this book will be a tremendous resource for educators who seek to make a difference.-Pedro A. Noguera, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Education, UCLA Graduate School of Education & Information StudiesMarkholt, Michelson, and Fink offer many insights into how administrators lead professional development while also surfacing numerous school conditions necessary to fuel and spread teaching practice. This important book also raises the possibility of collective leadership by principals and teachers for next generation school reforms that can better serve all students.-Barnett Berry, founder and CEO of the Center for Teaching Quality (CTQ)This book is exactly what both aspiring and practicing instructional leaders need. Each chapter offers guidance on practical moves principals and teams can engage in that develop greater expertise through focused observation, targeted professional development and support for refined teaching practice-all designed to improve student learning. The anchor case describes a school context that is realistic. The authors emphasize key points through the experiences of a principal and her leadership team and make the team's thinking visible.-Ann O'Doherty, EdD, Director, Danforth Educational Leadership Program, University of Washington College of EducationI wish this practical, accessible book by Markholt, Michelson and Fink was around during my time as a principal. When it comes to school leadership, besides ensuring physical and emotional safety, I can't think of a more important responsibility of leaders than ensuring impactful professional learning for adults. Every principal, teacher leader, and instructional leadership team should read this book.-Irvin Scott, EdD, Harvard Graduate School of Education