Making Sense of Social Networks in Schools

"It is refreshing to see a volume dedicated first and foremost to understanding and building human relationships in schools. By developing strong networks, schools can foster open systems committed to distributive leadership and exemplary academic outcomes."
―Sharon Conley, Professor
University of California, Santa Barbara

Discover how to navigate your school′s social networks to maximize communication and collaboration!

Social networks reflect the usually invisible relationships that control the flow of information and power within a school. This compelling guide provides school leaders with an understanding of the real relationships within their schools and how to use their social savvy to promote school goals.

This resource examines the types of social networks typically found in schools and provides samples of social network maps, steps for developing your own maps, and practical advice for managing social networks effectively. Learn how to leverage the power of:

• Task networks determined by work roles and organizational structure
• Friendship networks based on relationships between staff members
• Power networks that can influence opinions and resources
• Culture networks that can help unite staff

By understanding the many relationships that contribute to a school′s culture, leaders can cultivate innovative ideas, enhance teacher capacity, manage conflict, and get things done.

Terrence E. Deal is the Irving R. Melbo Professor at University of Southern California’s Rossier School. He is an internationally known lecturer and author who has written numerous books on leadership and organizations. In addition to those written with Lee Bolman, he is the coauthor of Corporate Cultures (with Alan Kennedy, 1982) and Shaping School Culture (with Kent Peterson, 1999).

Ted Purinton is assistant professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at National-Louis University in Chicago. His research interests are in organizational theory, educational policy, and innovation diffusion. He has worked with various organizations in their explorations of their own internal social networks.

Daria Cook Waetjen is a veteran teacher, special educator, and administrator. Currently at the Orange County Department of Education in Southern California, her focus is on organizational innovations and school reform.