The Other Side of the Desk: A 20/20 Look at the Principalship

by Lisa Parry, Patrick M. Jenlink (Foreword by)

Overview

This book explores the world of the principal with stories that capture readers' attention and moves them through the daily life of a school leader. The author reveals the working world of the principal in a clear, and sometimes frank, language with the intent to bolster and support newly positioned principals and reignite the leadership fire for those with many years of experience.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781607096658
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	03/15/2010
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	232
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 1.00(d)

About the Author

Janet Tareilo is an assistant professor in the department of Secondary Education and Education Leadership at Stephen F. Austin State University.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments vii

Preface ix

Foreword xi

1 Know Thyself 1

2 Wearing a Red Cape Doesn't Make You Superman 21

3 Building a School Vision, or How I Learned to Play with Lincoln Logs 49

4 Once a Teacher, Always a Teacher 65

5 "My Mama Said..." Loving the Kids Despite the Parents 89

6 I Didn't Go to Law School, and Neither Did You 109

7 Shepherding the Pups 127

8 It's Lonely at the Top 151

9 Tonto Rode beside the Lone Ranger, Not behind Him 175

10 I'm Supposed to Know How to Do What? 199

11 Somebody Has to Be in Charge, and They Chose You 223

12 And Then, here Are Some... 245

References 257

About the Author 261

Editorial Reviews

The Other Side of the Desk is superb! It embodies the powerful reflective practice of school leadership as only a caring and committed principal could convey. Tareilo's book is at times joyful, at times whimsical, and at times heartbreaking, yet always focused on a sound message of hope and resilience. Aspiring school principals, as well as veterans, will be treated to an insider's 20/20 view of a champion for kids walking the walk of school leadership. This is a must-read for anyone in the school business.

John Leonard

How do principals impact learning and school improvement? Are they superheroes with red capes? This book captures the heart and soul of leadership. Although principals face a multitude of tasks and may feel like they are being asked to 'leap tall buildings in a single bound,' Tareilo points out that successful leaders are fellow learners who are constantly engaged with others in efforts to improve schools. Tareilo captures the essence of leadership that matters in this book. The wisdom that is shared serves as a guide and springboard for reflection and positive action. Put it on your must-read list.

Betty Alford

Education leadership has long been characterized by a 'disconnect between what is taught in preparation programs and what practitioners need to be able to do in their schools.' Tareilo's The Other Side of the Desk successfully closes this gap. Tareilo is an expert with the use of metaphors, scenarios, and voice to effectively tie principal behaviors and actions back to practice. As a professor working in preparation programs, I say 'finally.'

Theodore B. Creighton