May 2012 Resources in the Spotlight
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
How We Can Learn to Fulfill Our Potential
by Carol S. Dweck, PhD
World-renowned Stanford University psychologist, Carol Dweck has discovered a truly groundbreaking idea – the power of our mindset. Dweck explains why it’s not just our abilities and talent that bring us success – but whether we approach our goals with a fixed or growth mindset. With the right mindset, we can motivate our kids as well as reach our own goals. This simple idea about the brain can create a love of learning and a resilience that is the basis of great accomplishment in every area.
Starting from Scratch
One Classroom Builds Its Own Curriculum
By Steven Levy
In detailed account, the author explains the step-by-step observations, thinking and planning that enabled Levy to develop a variety of original projects with his elementary students. These projects were generated by the children’s own interests but they also provided myriad opportunities to develop basic skills. In this regard, Starting from Scratch offers a creative reconciliation of some of the more hotly debated issues in education: project-based learning versus basic skills; integrated curriculum versus discipline-centered instruction; state and national standards versus local and individual interests.
Our Iceberg is Melting
Changing and Succeeding under Any Conditions
By John Kotter
In this fable, a penguin colony is living as they have for many years. Then one curious bird discovers that their survival is threatened by a potentially devastating problem, but no one wants to hear about it. The story’s characters are people we recognize; the techniques for managing change are essential knowledge for leaders. This memorable book’s lessons are based on the Eight Steps that produce change in any sort of group.
Mission-Directed Governance
Leading the Christian School with Vision, Unity, and Accountability
By Leonard Stob
Christian school leaders need to reflect carefully on the leadership and governance processes that can best guide their schools. This book introduces a mission-directed governance system designed to define educational ideals, focus leadership energies, advance the school, create accountability, and measure results. While holding fast to essential positions of Christian faith and educational philosophy, these ideas can help leaders of Christian schools more effectively address purpose, priority, and organization through fresh approaches to governance.