Dr. Dake has perfectly blended research, personal experiences from sitting school leaders, and survey data to produce relevant and practical advice for both prospective and active administrators. He shares both philosophical considerations and ready to use tools and strategies to assist school leaders in their personal and professional success. Well-prepared, skillful school leaders are critical to address the complexities and challenges of educational leaders. Our students and communities deserve it. This book should be a must-read for aspiring and experienced school leaders.
--Jason Andrews, Superintendent of Schools, Windsor Central School District (NY), 2019 New York State Superintendent of the Year, New York State Superintendent Development Program Co-Director
Dr. Dake has written a book essential to the success of any new or aspiring educational leader. He explores the concept of stress and, through the stories of educational administrators in the field, offers research-based tips for self-care. The work of an educational leader can be overwhelming. Dr. Dake systematically offers sound and practical advice to make it less overwhelming.
--Dr. Suzanne E. McLeod, former superintendent, Union-Endicott Central School District (NY); current coordinator of educational leadership, Department of Teaching, Learning, and Educational Leadership, Binghamton University
Dr. Dake takes on the issues that are most important to those individuals beginning their journey as a school administrator or making transitions within their career. His book addresses the challenges of time management that occur as a person transitions from a teaching role to administration, by providing helpful guidance. This, in turn, helps to turn the ever present enemy "time" into an ally.
--Denise Reboli, Professor of Education and Department Chair for Education, King's College (PA)
Prospective school leaders may find this book most useful as they consider whether or not administration is the career path they want to take, as it provides ideas to consider when choosing this trajectory, advice for selecting a position that will provide the best fit for and balance between one's professional and personal lives, and tips for applying and interviewing for leadership positions.
-- "Teachers College Record"
School leadership has always been stressful and demanding, but the extraordinary time we are living in now has brought the level of anxiety and challenges faced by school leaders beyond any we had ever anticipated. Dr. Dake's insightful and practical book is just what we need now to meet the demands that are on us both personally and professionally. From ways to avoid 'emotional contagion' to time management strategies for new models, the author's perspectives and practical strategies shared by today's active leaders make this worth carving out some precious time to read it.
--Karen Bronson, director, professional learning, School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS); former principal
