Product Review

Finalist--Association of Educational Publishers 2012 Distinguished Achievement Award

Just as it takes discipline to successfully run a marathon or to master a musical instrument, effective leadership in a professional learning community (PLC) requires more than simply trying harder: it requires training. In The Five Disciplines of PLC Leaders, Dr. Kanold provides a complete, focused system of practices for honing personal leadership skills in the five areas that will have the greatest impact on a school organization's success. PLC leaders must create a compelling vision, allow autonomy within defined boundaries, lead by serving, manage their personal energy levels, and inspire others to create a legacy of excellence.

Dr. Kanold digs deep into the critical questions leaders must ask themselves and the practices they must master and model for others. Using research and decades of experiences working in PLCs, he shows leaders how to develop their own leadership skills while also helping others build leadership capacity. This rich resource includes reflection exercises and study guides to help readers find their own path toward effective PLC leadership.

Benefits

* Helps educators to clarify their personal vision for the PLC and align daily practices with their goals

* Explores strategies for cultivating individual and team-level autonomy within a culture of accountability and high expectations

* Shows how to create a culture of service that begins with the leader

* Explains how to lead a balanced work life that energizes self and others

* Describes how to foster networks of commitment within the community