A Trainer's Companion: Stories to Stimulate Reflection, Conversation, Action

This is a collection of stories which provides jumping off points for reflection and discussions on such topics as conflict, diversity, reframing and change. It offers many opportunities to develop new perspective on old problems, making it a valuable tool for educators, professionals and anyone else who works in group situations.

William A. Sommers, Ph.D. is the Principal of Chaska High School in Chaska, Minnesota. He is also a Senior Fellow for the Urban Leadership Academy at the University of Minnesota and an adjunct professor of Educational Leadership at Hamline University. Bill is co-author of Living on a Tightrope: A Survival Handbook for Principals, with Ruby Payne, and has written many articles about coaching, assessment, and reflective thinking. In addition, Bill offers training in poverty, leadership, organizational development, conflict management, and classroom management. Walter “Skip” Olsen has been a social studies teacher and high school guidance counselor, served as business agent for the Minneapolis Federation of Teachers. As an adjunct professor, he taught courses on Internet for research, leadership and management skills for educators, organizational development, and educational reform. Skip has consulted with teacher unions, schools, and school districts. As a teacher and consultant Skip has used stories extensively to initiate and enhance dialogues.