Book Talks

But first, I must clarify…it’s been a long 10 weeks. I am well aware that I have not blogged since late August. So much has occurred in education-land since then. I have so much to say….from Tweachers being interviewed on the local news, to new book studies to phenomenal instructional practices. But something had to give. I am in the final two classes of my Texas Superintendency Certification program and my time has needed to be devoted to my schoolwork rather than blogging. I have reached a point where I am coming up for air and will now try my best to keep up-to-date here on the blog. Promise!

Back to Book Talks

I am asked quite often about the books I read. I do love to read. I read for pleasure (i.e. stress relieve) and I read for an internationalized purpose. There is room in our world for both. And we must be teaching our students the same as well. So what am I reading professionally? I have two books going presently: The Fundamental 5 by Sean Cain and Mike Laird and Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott. Both are riveting my work world as I read them – full of excellent, strong concepts that are easy and practical to put into place.

More on those books later.

Written below is a brief synopsis of professional books that I utilize on a weekly basis. Happy Reading!

Drive by Dan Pink – A fresh look at results-based structure and what motivates us.

Working on the Work by Phil Schlecty - I find myself going back to the Engagement levels time and time again.

SMART Goals – by Jan O’Neill – A phenomenal structure for producing achievement.

Readicide by Kelly Gallagher – An eye-opening experience regarding our reading instruction.

Classroom Instruction that Works by Robert Marzano – The BEST book regarding research based instructional strategies and why they work.

Pretty much anything written on Differentiated Instruction by Carol Ann Tomlinson – She is so my instructional hero.

People First by Jennifer Hindman – A strong approach to keeping what’s important first – the people with whom you work.

Teach With Your Strengths by Roseanne Liesveld and Jo Ann Miller – Learn how great teachers inspire their students.