Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Strategic Communications for School Leaders

Gunther, McGowan and Donegan draw on their own experiences and those of others in the field, to explain the importance of communication in school leadership. In focusing on the communication process-why it's critical for schools, and how it can be executed well-they make the case that communication must be a primary emphasis for leaders, not an afterthought. In Strategic Communications for School Leaders, the authors provide the insights and skills necessary for understanding the role of communication in educational leadership. They also lay the foundation for helping leaders-and those that aspire to be-create and execute communication plans that help to win the trust of an increasingly skeptical public and provide a means to advocate for schools' appropriate share of scarce resources. Topics addressed in the book include the following: understanding the audiences and their information channels; aligning the school leaders' messages with their educational goals and values; telling stories and using illustrative examples; delivering honest and credible messages (including admitting mistakes); using technology intelligently and appropriately; and creating and adhering to a communications plan. Review Gunther, McGowan and Donegan have hit a home run with their inspiring, informative, and instructive book. The book provides the reader with rich and strategic communications for creating school cultures that engage in powerful conversation, inquiry and reflection--essentials for embracing relational trust that leads to continuous improvement and school transformation.--Richard Streedain, co-director, National Louis University/KIPP Education Leadership Program A school leader's approach to communication can make or break a school's reputation, and its level of support and resources. This essential reference--brimming with proven tips and real-life examples--should be on your must-read list.--Tracy Kremer, communication, New Teacher Center The authors draw on their experience and stories from the trenches to explain why and how school leaders must invest in strategic school district communications--an investment that pays huge dividends in moving an education agenda forward.--Sylvia Soholt, Sylvia Soholt Strategic Communications Educational leaders are notoriously good at developing plans and implementing projects. They are a bit less so at communicating their intentions, listening for feedback, and traversing the tricky politics of educational landscapes. This book provides an essential roadmap for these difficult yet critical skills. The authors have done a remarkable job of showing clearly how leaders can strengthen their schools and districts through better communication.--Ted Purinton, National-Louis University For any school leader concerned about effective communication, Strategic Communications for School Leaders is a must. Writing in a clear, straightforward style, the authors not only address the 'how' of effective communications but, just as importantly, the 'why.' I highly recommend it for every administrator and board member. It just became required reading for my students.--Paul Johnson, Bowling Green State University Strategic Communications for School Leaders effectively highlights the myriad challenges and landmines faced by educational leaders, as well as the onslaught of opportunities to be misrepresented or misunderstood. Fortunately, Gunther, McGowan and Donegan offer a clear roadmap that illuminates a pathway to the development of systems for ongoing, meaningful, two-way communication. The practice of strategic communications will result in closer alignment of community values, clearer focus on desired outcomes, strengthened partnerships, and a more efficient organization. At the end of the year, it is our students who will benefit from such respectful communications and collaborations.--Fred Brill, superintendent, Lafayette School District, Lafayetta, California About the Author