Principaled: Navigating the Leadership Learning Curve

by Kate Barker, Kourtney Ferrua, Rachael George

While the principal’s office may sometimes feel like the loneliest place in the building, it doesn’t have to be. In Principaled , veteran principals Kate Barker, Kourtney Ferrua, and Rachael George draw back the curtain on their years of experience, revealing the strategies, mind-sets, and practices that have helped them flourish in their roles. With humor, humility, and candor, the authors detail the key ingredients to finding balance as a school taking time to reflect and learn, seeking out mentors, crafting simple and clear goals, and not neglecting self-care. The authors present a step-by-step approach to facing the challenges of school change and demonstrate that achievement and improving culture are not mutually exclusive goals. Strengthened by their hard-earned wisdom, the dynamic trio behind Principaled will elevate school leaders and help them find their footing along the route to career contentment. “Being a principal is a rocky ride. Tomorrow always has surprises waiting,there are always too many priorities, and for most of us good is not good enough. This is a rare book, written from the front line. A must-have for future, new, and experienced school leaders.” — John Hattie, PhD , director of the Melbourne Educational Research Institute “Barker, Ferrua, and George’s Principaled should be required as the go-to playbook for every education leader seeking to lead effectively. The reader is left with the seeds of effective leadership and a developed purpose, and presented with a comprehensive game plan on how effective principals can be cultivated through strategic reflection.” — Dr. A. Katrise Perera , 2015 NASS Superintendent of the Year “Barker, Ferrua, and George masterfully identify the areas where it matters the knowing yourself, knowing your people, and knowing your skill sets. The authors share personal stories and relevant examples with refreshing honesty and insight.” — Jimmy Casas , leadership coach, educator, author, and speaker

Genres: Education, Leadership

234 pages, Paperback

Published November 16, 2020

Reviews

[Wendie Barney Boucher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading the advice and ideas from the authors with their varied principal expereinces. I liked that they included some of their own personal stories within the chapters to show the reader that they are not alone in their experiences. I felt like I took a lot of good ideas away from the book to help me.

[Nate K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate, Kourtney, and Rachael share wisdom from their experiences as educational leaders. They understand the struggles and joys of being an administrator, and they offer practical ways to make a difference in our school communities.

[Kevin English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Practical and a lot of common sense leadership suggestions. Many good books referenced throughout.

[Becky Tillett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this book for a college admin program. Expected it to be another dry, boring text book. Was pleasantly surprised. It was witty, full of actual good advice, and useful. The anecdotes made it feel like you could connect to the authors. It was like getting a supportive hug from a great mentor.

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The graphic organizers and the conversational tone was perfect for connecting with the audience. This is definitely a book I will keep referencing throughout my career.

[Amanda Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great leadership read for class!

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read for anyone moving from the classroom to an administrative role.