Standards-Based Leadership

Today's school principal is charged with the responsibility for creating a learning organization which emphasizes success for all students. An important component leading to these successful school experiences is decision-making based on standards that are grounded in research and best-practice. Standards-Based Leadership: A Case Study Book for the Principalship provides a structure for learning and growth that connects theory with practice whether the principal is already "on the job" or enrolled in a preparation program.

Each chapter is organized around identification of a major ELCC standard, as well as the Texas standards. The scenarios are all based on real problems that have faced real principals. Applying the descriptors of the standard and using the brief literature reviews as resources to guide decision-making, principals are provided with a framework for implementation of specific strategies that will best help students.

As school leaders reflect on the realistic situations provided in each chapter and identify possible applications and implications, they will be strengthened in their quest to meet the challenges of standards-based leadership for the principalship.

Sandra Harris is an educator with experience in K-12 public and private schools. She is currently assistant professor in the Department of Secondary Education and Educational Leadership at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas.

Sandra Lowery is a former public school superintendent. She is currently a full professor and chair of the Department of Secondary Education and Educational Leadership at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas.