Leading Learning In A Changing World: Using Childrens Literature For Professional Dialogue

Professional development activities have proven adequate to facilitate mastery of new content, inform teachers of best practice, and for dissemination of information, however, such efforts fail to address the emotional and personal aspects of the teaching profession. Here is a hands-on activities book that provides school leaders an easy-to-use format for the delivery of professional development sessions for K-12 personnel. It details three major topics: social realities (e.g. societal trauma), diversity (e.g. Disabilities), and community conundrums (e.g. economic uncertainties).

The uniqueness of this book is the activity design using children's literature to provide a neutral framework for discussion of often-difficult issues. The authors provide an opportunity for teachers to explore their underlying assumptions, unacknowledged biases, or often unspoken feelings about issues that are central to student success. They seek to regain professional responsibility to solve problems and improve education in our ever-changing world.

For administrators or teacher leaders who are on the cutting edge of facilitating professional development for problem solving issues in our schools.

Jacqueline E. Jacobs is professor of Educational Leadership at Western Carolina University.

Julie Rotholz has spent the past decade at the University of South Carolina College of Education.