The Principal As Leader of the Equitable School

From the Ontario Principals' Council (mainly the OPC Equity and Inclusive Education Team and a group of three authors who are education scholars and current and former principals in Canada), this guide helps current and future principals and school leaders expand awareness of equity issues, nurture a culture of activism in addressing them, and develop ideas and strategies for working with others to do so. It argues that awareness and celebration of diversity are not sufficient to ensure equity and that concrete strategies are needed to move toward more equitable schools. It explains the principal's role in creating change toward inclusion and equity and presents them with tools to engage in the process. It details the current education environment and challenges leaders face in ensuring equity; key concepts such as the purposes of education, accountability, power and privilege, and leadership characteristics that promote inclusive education and serve traditionally marginalized students; the inner work needed to be more equitable and inclusive; creating a school climate that promotes equity; working with staff, students, and the community; and assessing progress in the school. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)