What Every Principal Needs to Know to Create Equitable and Excellent Schools

This book is a critical instructional leadership resource for new and veteran principals who want to see all students succeed. Key scholars show how to put into practice a commitment to equity and excellence across the Pre-K–12 spectrum. Readers learn directly from experts in each of the content domains (literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, music, early childhood, special education, English language learners, world languages, and physical education) how a commitment to social justice and equity can be grounded in core subject areas, why each has a place in the school, and what they need to know and do in each subject area.

George Theoharis is an associate dean in the School of Education at Syracuse University and associate professor in Educational Leadership and Inclusive Elementary Education. He is the author of The School Leaders Our Children Deserve. Jeffrey S. Brooks is an associate professor and program coordinator of Educational Administration at Iowa State University. He is the author of Black School, White School: Racism and Educational (Mis)leadership.

“This book is a noble work of art; it is thoughtful, well written, and passionate.”
—Sarah Jerome, superintendent, past president of the AASA

“A much-needed and important extension in our understanding of instructional leadership.”
—Joseph F. Murphy, Vanderbilt University

“At last a book on what principals need to know that doesn’t sacrifice the idea of an education to develop the entire human being instead of workers who can compete with China.”
—Fenwick W. English, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

“Bridges the gap between the intellectual considerations of academia and the everyday aspects of leadership practice. It is a must-read for principals, superintendents, curriculum specialists, and those who prepare them.”
—Autumn Cyprès, The University of Tennessee

“Finally, a thoughtful, well-crafted book that guides school leaders on promoting both high-quality teaching and learning and equity principles to improve student learning across content areas and needs.”
—Terry Orr, Bank Street College of Education

"WOW! Social justice leadership with explicit core content areas addressed all in one book. All principals hoping to improve student achievement and equity should consider this book when thinking about their leadership."
—Deborah Hoffman, principal, Lincoln Elementary School, Madison, WI

“As a school principal in high-need schools for the past 10 years, I truly recommend this book to anyone interested in improving the state of learning and increasing achievement scores.”
—Rob DiFlorio, principal, Henninger High School, Syracuse, NY