The Principal's Office: A Social History of the American School Principal

by Kate Rousmaniere

The Principal's Office is the first historical examination of one of the most important figures in American education. Originating as a head teacher in the nineteenth century and evolving into the role of contemporary educational leader, the school principal has played a central part in the development of American public education. A local leader who not only manages the daily needs of the school but also represents district and state officials, the school principal is the connecting hinge between classroom practice and educational policy. Kate Rousmaniere explores the cultural, economic, and political pressures that have impacted school leadership over time and considers professionalization, the experiences of women and people of color, and progressive community initiatives. She discusses the intersections between the role of the school principal with larger movements for civil rights, parental and community activism, and education reform. The school principal emerges as a dynamic character in the center of the educational enterprise, ever maneuvering between multiple constituencies, responding to technical and bureaucratic demands, and enacting different leadership strategies. By focusing on the historic development of school leadership, this book provides insights into the possibilities of school improvement for contemporary school leaders and reformers.

Genres: Education

209 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2013

Reviews

[Haylee Perry · Rating 3 out of 5]

I actually enjoyed reading this but simply cannot rate a textbook about the history of principals in the US that I was forced to read higher than 3 stars

[Alison Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super interesting read that summarizes the history of the US education system as it follows the American school principal from the one-room schoolhouse to the bureaucratic position it is today. It also highlights the two legally separate systems of schooling the US maintained until full implementation of Brown and how integration was achieved in many places by closing Black schools, putting Black school principals out of their jobs and unable to find similar employment in white schools where communities wanted white principals. I wish Rousmaniere had provided a bit more historical context to paint the scene of what was happening outside the education system, particularly in the first two chapters. But overall, this is one I’ll keep on my shelf for future reference.