Leading for Change: A Renewed Focus on Teaching and Learning

Edward L. Edmonds is a professor of education at the University of
Prince Edward Island and an honorary chief of the Lennox Island
Mi’kmaq of Prince Edward Island.

Two veteran authors look at the failing Antelope Range School District
as a model for leadership programs inaugurated by the school
superintendent and carried through by partners, notably the school and
the community it serves. These processes are real enough, but were
buttressed by reference to sound educational theory. “Greg” (perhaps
the superintendent’s pseudonym for Dr. George Bedard?) believes firmly
in small schools, and this advice applies to them. On pages 65 and 66,
the Aitkens provide specimen answers to questions frequently asked. They
also provide space for readers’ notes.

In short, this is a book to be studied by key players in educational
leadership positions: critical analysis when applied to their own
position is never wasted. The Leadership Capacity Staff Survey might
well be adapted by teachers for teachers themselves in school. External
inspection seems to be on the way out today, though there still is a
place for it in the small, more isolated schools in the form of
occasional visitation.