“Leading Change in Your School, How to Conquer Myths, Build Commitment, and Get Result” by Douglas B. Reeves
There are so many professional development books, videos, and seminars for educators, musicians and leaders. Here is a brief review of a professional development book not necessarily aimed for music educators but has a many applications for us, anyway. My goal is to find books to help music educators have a lasting impact.
Find the Data
One thing I appreciated about this book, is that there were many worksheets that help direct you towards your desired outcome. Reeves recommends using data to drive the change. “Leading Change in Your School” presents a comprehensive roadmap for educational change, catering specifically to the unique landscape of musical education. Reeves’ approach is systematic and pragmatic, offering a nuanced perspective that resonates well with educators seeking to initiate positive transformations.
Foster All Environments
One of the book’s notable strengths lies in its adaptability to various educational contexts, including musical education. Reeves provides many case studies and real-life examples that illustrate the challenges faced by all educators and administrations. This book offers valuable insights into integrating change initiatives in your branch of education, whatever that may be. Reeves explores how effective leadership can foster an environment where creativity and discipline coexist. This is relevant as music educators are striving for enhanced experienes for their students.
Use the Data
Reeves outlines practical strategies for overcoming common hurdles encountered during the change process. He emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making, a concept that can be seamlessly applied in assessing musical learning outcomes and refining teaching methods. Additionally, his emphasis on fostering a collaborative culture aligns well with the collaborative nature of music education, where ensemble playing and group dynamics are fundamental.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Leading Change in Your School” offers a valuable resource for educators, including those in the field of musical education. Its practical approach and real-world examples make it a worthwhile read for teachers and administrators looking to navigate the complexities of change while preserving the integrity of musical education. The potential rewards of improved educational practices make it a valuable addition to the repertoire of anyone aiming for change.
Final Thoughts
I hope this review gives you some insight on this book. You can find a copy of it here. It is a little bit of a dense read, but still valuable time spent. Let me know if you have any recommendations for my next professional development book review!