R&L Education
Pages: 154
Trim: 6⅛ x 9
978-1-61048-638-5 • Paperback • December 2011 • $39.00 • (£30.00)
978-1-61048-639-2 • eBook • December 2011 • $37.00 • (£30.00)
Dr. Evert is a former public school superintendent of 14 years and has served as a high school principal and director of student services. His doctorate is in Ed. Psych. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Evert is currently an instructor at Edgewood College in Madison, WI. He teaches courses in law, media, curriculum, and instruction in addition to serving as a doctoral dissertation advisor.
Amy Van Deuren is an educator and author, and has a law degree from the S.J. Quinney School of Law, University of Utah. She is currently an adjunct faculty member and internship supervisor at National Louis University, teaching courses in school law, school-community relations, finance, policy, and research. In addition, Ms. Van Deuren is an instructor at Edgewood College teaching school law.
A Note Regarding External Experts
Preface Tom Evert
Preface Amy Van Deuren
Chapter 1: External Experts: Overview and Context
Chapter 2: Creating Foundational System Change Through Development and Adoption of a Chapter 3: Addressing Diversity Issues in the District
Chapter 4: Using External Experts to Address a Wide Range of Issues
Chapter 5: Transferring and Implementing Proven Health Care Leadership Concepts to Public Chapter 6: Lessons Learned About Leadership
References
About the Authors
As a District Administrator at a small public school in Northern Wisconsin, I found that "Making External Experts Work Solutions for District Leaders" to be a valuable resource that I will use for ongoing professional growth for not only myself, but also for my District.
This book gives much needed advice for how to look for the best external experts to bring into your District. Districts are constantly facing budget constraints, and always looking for expert resources who will help take your school to the next level. This book will be a guide to ensure that your school district is the school district of choice for both parents and students, but also for teachers looking to team with a progressive school district that is on the cutting edge of educational trends.
— Dr. James N. Ellis, District Administrator, Minocqua J1 School District, WI
I read Making External Experts Work with great anticipation. I believe the insights and ideas of highly successful practitioners should be shared with others. After reading Making External Experts Work, I was not disappointed as I found the book to be well done and more importantly, beneficial to my work.
The authors provide superintendents and other district leaders, including boards of education, with insight about why a school district should invest in a relationship with an external expert. The external experts discussed in the book speak specifically to critical areas in which school districts must address in order to achieve a high level of learning for all through a commitment of continuous improvement.
I have had the good fortune of being part of organizations that benefited from the knowledge and experiences shared by external experts. Not only did it have an impact on my learning, but it positively impacted the school district and community. This book provides a practical approach for helping school districts consider the advantages of partnering with external experts. You will not be disappointed.
— Dale Carlson, Superintendent, Holmen, Wisconsin
There is an inherent problem in the title of “Superintendent.” That problem is the root word “Super.” Superintendents – and other central office staff – are looked to for always having the answers because they are “Super.” Tom Evert and Amy Van Deuren have taken a fresh look at the use of external experts. Their practical advice – linked to relevant examples – will make this book a “dog-eared staple” for every school administrator committed to improving his/her professional practice.
— Ron Heilmann, Superintendent, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Even though Thomas Evert and Amy Van Deuren wrote this book for school district leaders, it is a valuable resource for anyone in a leadership role, because the lessons learned can be easily transferred to other professional fields. Their broad definition of external experts as compared to the narrow conceptualization of “consultants” brings the book to life, providing excellent usable suggestions and insights for leaders.
The case study format inspires interest and brings the book into real life situations. Chapter six is especially helpful as the authors reflect on lessons learned about leadership, providing valuable suggestions and ideas for all of us. Well done!
— Michael R. Weber, Superintendent, Port Washington, WI