Do principals see themselves as others see them? Many new and veteran principals remark that one cannot truly know what it means to be a principal until you are one. However, most people have developed their own perceptions of the role of a principal based on their direct experience. Sharon Pristash describes the various perceptions of the principalship based on interviews with students, teachers, parents, and community members. She also offers some implications these perceptions might have for the profession. Viewpoints of practicing or former principals are included allowing the reader to compare and contrast the public and personal view of the profession. Whether novice or veteran principal, there''s something for everyone in this fascinating study.
Industry Reviews
Is it any wonder people's perceptions of the principalship are so varied? This book is a great read for principals or future principals, an interesting read for school personnel, an important read for community members, and an enjoyable read for students. I highly recommend it. -- Mary Jenatscheck, Principal, Hartley Elementary, Waseca (Minn.) Public School District
Sharon Pristash has captured both the essence and the mystery of the principal's position in her highly entertaining and engaging work. After 25 years as a principal I mistakenly thought I had examined this position from all angles and had seen just about everything. Fortunately Sharon has found another useful perspective for studying the principalship, that being the perceptions of others. Her recording of the stories from parents, teachers, and students ring with authenticity and bring a smile to the face of the reader. -- David W. Peterson, principal, South View Middle School, Edina MN
Dr. Sharon Pristash has written an amazing book with real 'food for thought.' It is written in a friendly and down to earth style that makes for easy reading. As an aspiring principal, I now see how different audiences view the principal's job. -- Chery Takkunen, Aspiring Principal and Instructor, The College of St. Scholastica, Duluth Minn.
Sharon Pristash brings humor and truth to the everyday challenges facing principals of the 21st century. Having been a principal in both Texas and California, I find Dr. Pristash pinpoints the common issues facing principals nationwide. A must read for aspiring, current and former principals. -- Emma A. Chavez, Director of Religious Education, St. James Parish
Through the perceptions of students, parents, teachers, community members and principals, Sharon Pristash has captured the essence of the principal's role. Observers tend to oversimplify the responsibilities of the principal, but this book doesn't. Though a quick read, it comprehensively captures the scope of the job. -- Larry Johnson, Retired Principal, Duluth, Minn.
An insightful and humorous account of the perceptions stakeholders hold regarding the responsibilities of this unique educational leadership position. I'll be using Sharon's profiles of the principal's role from the view of students, parents, teachers, and the community in my Principalship class this summer. -- Michael Wallschlaeger, Professor & Chair, Educational Administration Department, University of Wisconsin, Superior
