Improve Learning by Building Community ― A Principal's Guide to Action

Written for both new and experienced principals, this resource provides a blueprint for building visionary learning communities that improve student learning not only by shaping the internal school communityfaculty and staffbut also by creating a partnership with the external communitydistrict educators, families, community organizations, and service agencies. Administrators will find invaluable assistance fromPractical Tips that offer strategies for implementation, Points for Practicethat highlight critical concepts andPoints to Ponder that promote reader reflection. Each chapter encourages school leaders to consider what community building means for their own schools and provides guidance for:
Building a vision based on your personal and professional values
Shaping a school culture that supports teamwork
Honoring school staff members at all levels
Examining and understanding the external environment
Drawing effectively on community support services
Collaborating with district staff
Improve Learning by Building Community helps principals bring together all stakeholders to create the kind of schools that can ensure success for every student.

John C. Daresh is professor of educational leadership at the University of Texas at El Paso. He currently lives in El Paso, Texas.

Jane Lynch currently serves as the faculty leader of the Department of Business, Information Technology, and Enterprise at All Hallows Catholic College in Macclesfield, Cheshire, England.