Creating Excellence: Becoming an A+ School is intended to be used by first year principals who have inherited a school that is failing or not achieving to a desired level, as well as by seasoned principals who are struggling to improve their school's academic performance. It can also be used effectively as a textbook for graduate students preparing for a career in educational leadership. The book is straightforward in its presentation of practices and strategies supported by research and theory. It has been written to share the knowledge base, impart the technical skills, and highlight the interpersonal skills recommended to enable educational leaders to create excellence and enable their school to become an A+ school. Within the chapters, tools, techniques, and concrete examples are offered. Educational leaders are encouraged to select, revise, and adjust proposed actions based on their own judgement and according to their local conditions, faculty, staff and other stakeholders. Regardless, improving instruction in order to increase student learning must be the focus.
Industry Reviews
Dr. Vernon G. Smith captures the essence of 21st century Leadership. As he does so eloquently in all his roles as professor, statesman, and philanthropist. Dr. Smith evokes passion, commitment and honor. This book gives concrete direction to ameliorate current, and future leaders. I wholeheartedly endorse Creating Excellence: Becoming an A+ School. -- Sharon Johnson-Shirley, EdD, superintendent Lake Ridge New Tech Schools
If you desire to become a better leader in k-12 schools or you teach leaders in k-12 schools, I recommend you add Vernon G. Smith's Creating Excellence: Becoming An A+ School to your leadership toolkit. Smith uses his many years as a principal, professor, and advocates for school change to guide the reader through the necessary attributes of a "Great" principal. The book is truly inspirational, highlighting how effective leadership can transform a school into a truly inspiring organization for all stakeholders. From creating a school philosophy to engaging parents, each chapter is a brilliant mix of theory and practice resulting in a roadmap that educational leaders can follow as they work to improve their school outcomes. I highly recommend this compelling book! -- Rochelle Brock, professor and chair, Educational Leadership & Cultural Foundations, University North Carolina Greensboro
