Principals as Early Learning Leaders Effectively Supporting Our Youngest Learners

“Principals as Early Learning Leaders is imperative reading for any school leader working with our youngest students to ensure they better understand and implement sound practices.” ―AASA School Administrator

The majority of public school principals are now required to supervise and evaluate early childhood teachers and classrooms, yet many do not have a sufficient understanding of child development and early childhood pedagogy to lead for equity. This practical and comprehensive resource addresses this critical gap by presenting current research on child development, an understanding of the elements of high-quality early childhood classrooms, essential information on trauma-responsive practices, and strategies for reducing bias and preventing the use of exclusionary discipline with young children.

School leaders learn about the pivotal role they can play in improving equity for young children, their families, and the early childhood workforce. Each chapter includes key takeaways and central questions that can be used for individual reflection or to guide group discussions. Authentic examples, illustrations, and actionable strategies help readers to successfully implement the content in their school.

Principals as Early Learning Leaders is essential reading for principals, vice principals, administrators, and others responsible for leading preschool and pre-K programs for equity.

Book Features:

• Supports elementary school principals to better understand the role early education plays in their school.
• Addresses essential issues of equity in all aspects of early learning programs that require focus and leadership.
• Provides current research and practical strategies that principals can put into practice immediately to be effective instructional leaders.
• Uses authentic examples and vignettes throughout to help readers see the ideas in the context of real preschool classrooms.
• Includes reflection questions and key takeaways to help principals think about how the information presented can inform the work they do.

Julie Nicholson is professor of practice in the School of Education at Mills College. Helen Maniates is associate professor of teacher education in the School of Education at the University of San Francisco. Serene Yee is an education programs consultant for the California Department of Social Services. Thomas Williams Jr. serves as an executive strategic policy analyst in the Kentucky Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Early Learning. Veronica Ufoegbune has directed many publicly funded and non-profit early learning programs, including UC Berkeley’s childcare centers. Raul Erazo-Chavez is executive director of schools and programs in the Early Education Department within the San Francisco Unified School District.