The Principal's Field Manual

William A. Sommers, Ph.D. of Austin, Texas, continues to be a learner, teacher, principal, author, leadership coach, and consultant. Bill has come out of retirement five times to put theory into practice. He was on the Board of Trustees for five years and President for the National Staff Development Council now called Learning Forward. Dr. Sommers is the former Executive Director for Secondary Curriculum and Professional Learning for Minneapolis Public Schools, and a school administrator for over 30 years. In addition to being an adjunct faculty member at several universities, he has been a program director for an adolescent chemical dependency treatment center and on the board of a halfway house for 20 years. Bill has co-authored eight books, and co-authored chapters in several other books. In January 2016 Bill and his colleague Skip Olsen launched a website www.learningomnivores.com which includes educational blogs, new rules, and book reviews. Bill is a practitioner who integrates theory into leading and facilitating schools. Dr. Sommers has continued to be a leadership coach for over 25 years to school administrators.

List of Figures Very Quick Reference Acknowledgments About the Authors Introduction The Framing Model - Facets of Effectiveness Two Fundamental Techniques Less Quick Reference Leadership Communications Dialog Trust Collaboration/Teamwork Fire Fighting Culture Ten Rules/Guidelines for Leadership Mission Mission Metrics Organizational Values Ten Guidelines/Rules for Mission Strategy Scenario Planning Systems Thinking Decision-Making / Problem-Solving Ten Guidelines/Rules for Strategy Organizational Structure Project Management Change Conflict Management/Resolution Policies, Procedures, and Professional Judgment Competencies and Position Sketch Ten Rules/Guidelines for Organizational Structure People Personal Values Data, Information, Inferences Managing Staff Followership Influence and Political Savvy Ten Rules/Guidelines for People Conclusion Glossary Appendix 1. Principal Responsibilities Appendix 2. Operating Styles Appendix 3. Project Charter Sample Appendix 4. Capacity to Act Assessment Appendix 5. Position Sketch Appendix 6. Newmann's Model Appendix 7. Decision Requirements Table Appendix 8. Uncritical Inference Test References Index

"An extensive and comprehensive resource for aspiring as well as practicing school leaders at every level. For aspiring school leaders, this book provides a multifaceted look at the complexity of school organizations. For practicing school leaders, the design of the content, the broad array of useful information, the action checklists, the quick-read guidelines, and the extensive references provide readers with a useful guide." -- Gerald N. Tirozzi, Executive Director "Principals, regardless of the hat being worn-instructional leader, process manager, school administrator, or organization CEO-will find a treasure trove of tools, processes, models, assessments, and much more. This compendium of ideas represents 'just in time' applications to the authentic, day-to-day realities of the practicing site administrator." -- Karen M. Dyer, Director, Education and Nonprofit Sector "Leadership is partially about skill and personality, and a whole lot about values. This book takes all the elements of a leader's journey and provides useful tools for both day-to-day and long-term success. It is simple to use, easy to follow, and actionable." -- Alex C. Cirillo, Jr., Vice President, 3M Community Affairs