Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Responding to Resistors: Tactics that Work for Principals

Principal must be aware that there are individual teacher resistors who have a reason to voice their concerns about a proposed instructional change or reform. Therefore, a critical question must be contemplated: "What's a principal to do?" Does the school leader dismiss resistors as whiners who are forever griping? Or, must a principal seriously contemplate the voices of discontent? Are the campus grumblings, within the context of change, real in nature? If so, what is the message that a principal must be attuned to, and then, in response, handle, if not overcome? These serious queries are the underlying basis for the seven principal tactics addressed in the book. Typically, teacher resistance is a function of disruption aimed at a change employees believe will alter their current work habits and impact teaching or instructional patterns. Teachers, in general, are accepting of the status quo. The more variation or modification to the status quo, or to the current working process and/or the teaching and learning environment, the more resistance. Responding to Resistors: Principal Tactics that Work! is purposefully written to aid the campus leader in answering the school leadership call when confronting teacher resistance as related to essential, if not critical change. Review Responding to Resistors: Tactics that Work for Principals is a must-read for current and aspiring school leaders. Sorenson explains everything thoroughly and gives relatable examples on how to change the mindset of your school. If you are a leader who is trying to revolutionize your team, this book is for you!--Erika Morales, instructional specialist, San Elizario High School, San Elizario Independent School District A must-read for current and aspiring school administrators. Sorenson navigates the how and by what means successful principals guide teacher resistors in today's ever-changing educational field by providing excellent direction as to how change needs to occur in order to truly help students learn and succeed.--Rita Monsivais, professional development oncsultant, Education Service Center - Region 19 Dr. Sorenson has taken the reader into the day-to-day experiences of successful school principals who wish to inspire change and growth for all teachers. This book is a must-read for both current and aspiring school administrators. It provides a guide for the challenges that lay ahead. Resisting change takes little to no effort, while accepting change is the actual battle. If any leader is interested in making a difference, this book is a must have! To make change happen principals must understand what they are asking of others and then, be willing to make a change themselves. Great read, highly recommend it!--Alejandra Flores, 9th grade mathematics teacher, Canutillo High School, Canutillo Independent School District Dr. Sorenson provides an insightful analysis into what every incoming administrator must face: change and teacher resistance. Whether you are a brand-new administrator walking onto campus for the first time or a veteran principal moving to a new school, this book has valuable information for all levels. You can feel the experience and wisdom throughout the pages.--Nubia G. Zamora, 6th grade social studies teacher, Parkland Middle School, Ysleta Independent School District About the Author Richard Sorenson is professor emeritus at The University of Texas at El Paso where he served as department chairperson and director of the Principal Preparation Program. Currently, he teaches school-based budgeting, school personnel, and administrative leadership courses.