Organize, Communicate, Empower!

From TeacherHelp.com: HEIDI SHAVER is a distinguished educator who has spent her career striving to improve the educational strategies and curriculum utilized in the implementation of a balanced literacy program. A former classroom teacher, literacy support teacher, and assistant principal, she currently serves as the building administrator for Century Elementary School in Aurora, Colorado. In addition to serving as an elementary principal, Heidi conducts staff development training across the country. She frequently speaks at state and national conferences, as well as designing individualized training for school districts. She is an INSIGHT trainer/consultant for Wright Group/McGraw-Hill, available through TeacherHelp.com.

Preface About the Author Acknowledgments Dedication Introduction Section I. Organization 1. Organization of the Facility Files Stackable Shelves Meeting Space Hallways and Community Areas Chapter Review 2. Organization of Time Getting Organized From the Start Appointments and Messages First Things First Chapter Review 3. Organization of Programs Developing Learning Blocks Learning Expectations Monitoring Student Progress Professional Development Plans Monitoring Staff Chapter Review Section II. Communication 4. Communicating With Building Staff Planning and Preparation Forms of Communication Genuine Listening Group Processing Strategies Chapter Review 5. Communicating With Parents and Community Members Visibility Written Communication Basics Forms of Written Communication Face-to-Face Communication Chapter Review 6. Communicating With District Personnel Considering the District Viewpoint Communicating Building Needs Managing the District Paper Trail Sharing Building Information Chapter Review Section III. Empowerment 7. Giving Up Control and Extending Support Trust Planning and Communicating Support Chapter Review 8. Designing and Implementing Leadership Teams Identifying Team Outcomes Forming a Leadership Team Steps to Ensure Team Success Chapter Review 9. Using Data to Empower and Gain Staff Commitment Serving as the Tour Guide Serving as the Law Enforcement Officer Chapter Review Closing Remarks Resources References

"Shaver has captured the basic elements for success for novice principals and assistant principals. In a friendly, conversant style, she describes many logistical aspects of the job, giving multiple suggestions for ways to make these less of a burden for the school leader." -- Janet Kruse Alcorn, Director "As the face of education continues to change, Organize, Communicate, Empower! fills a major gap for educational leaders. It provides clear, straightforward direction on how to develop a successful school system where staff, parents, and students play a vital role." -- David Stewart, West Virginia Superintendent of Schools "This is a practical 'how to be successful in the early years' book for school leaders and a wonderful resource for practicing veterans." -- Rich Rusak, Senior Consultant "This resource highlights skills and strategies that can help school leaders balance daily duites and increase productivity." -- Educational Research Services' ERS Bulletin, June 2004