Chasing what feels easy is a human instinct—but it's only when young people embrace challenges that they become stronger versions of themselves and lead more joyful, meaningful lives.In our happiness-obsessed society, we can become isolated in comfort zones and overly focused on temporary pleasures. Kids naturally do the same. In our effort to protect and help them, we often shield them from discomfort. But are we unwittingly denying them experiences that will form...

Meaningful improvement in schools and districts is just small shifts away. How can administrators and teachers work together in ways that lead to significant—and sustained—improvement over time? How can schools accomplish this goal without adding to the work of overstretched educators? This practical guide answers these questions with recommendations for small, practical, powerful shifts that educators can make to their daily practice.In Small Shifts, Meaningfu...

In chemistry, a catalyst accelerates change without being depleted. As we seek school improvement, we need sustainable, scalable changes, and therefore catalytic structures are ideal. From communities of practice to professional learning communities to Networked Improvement Communities (NICs) much has been made in the scholarly and consultancy literature about collaborative approaches to improvement.The benefit of improvement communities that operate in networks over professional l...

Elevating the essential work of today’s teachersTeaching is life-giving work, essential for the development of thriving humans. It is devastating to hear teachers refer to themselves as "just teachers" as if they are powerless and without status. What if we turned the phrase’s meaning upside-down and claimed its redemptive power? "Just teachers" care for each student. Teachers who are just, cultivate freedom, justice, and flourishing.This book will have readers "ju...

It’s about the work, not the position.Leadership is what is done, not who is doing it. The leadership work blurs the lines between teachers and administrators. Leading Together introduces a collective approach to progress, process, and programs to help build the conditions in which strong leadership can flourish and student outcomes improve.All school teams will find applicable insights as they explore the Collective Leadership Development...

Capture the novice mindset!Get ready to teach as never before, powered by a fresh, brave mindset. With humor and insight, this down-to-earth guide reveals a fundamental principle: the best teachers grow through risk, reflection, and revision. Readers will learn how to:Sustain the energy and positive qualities of a novice, while building expertise at all career stagesDevelop a network of support to improve teaching practice...

Read by the author.Chasing what feels easy is a human instinct—but it's only when young people embrace challenges that they become stronger versions of themselves and lead more joyful, meaningful lives.In our happiness-obsessed society, we can become isolated in comfort zones and overly focused on temporary pleasures. Kids naturally do the same. In our effort to protect and help them, we often shield them from discomfort. But are we unwitti...