My Top Ten PD Reads
The books below are some of the professional development books that I've read in the past two years which have left a mark on me as an aspiring leader and educator.
01:
Monday Morning Leadership by David Cottrell
Enjoyable read packed with inspiring narratives and advice on how to become a better person and leader. This is written from a business perspective, but the content can apply to educational leadership.
02:
Collaborative Leadership: Six Influences that Matter Most by Peter DeWitt
A game changer and bible for those starting out in administration to focus on building relationships and trust with those on your team. Aligns with John Hattie's work and is an inspiring read.
03:
Visible Learning for Teachers: Maximum Impact on Learning by John Hattie
A must have book to understand the effective size of what truly makes a difference in the education of your students. Filled with useful data on what matters most with regards to instruction.
04:
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
Told in a similar narrative of Gladwell's previous gems, this book analyzes how and why some are successful and why other's never reach their full potential. Success is not an easy feat, but one in which you must work towards with practice.
05:
Start with Why by Simon Sinek
Sinek reiterates that people do not buy what you do, but why you do it. It is your story that or your "why" that connects you to others. This connection can lead to trust, and then transformational change! A great follow-up to Sinek's TED talk.
06:
The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller
When a child says that he or she hates reading, that child just hasn't found the perfect book--yet! This book discusses how reading is more than a reading level. Instead, we have to develop and create a passion for reading with our students through connections and relationships! Perfect for the person who says they don't have time to read because by the end of the book, he or she will be making time!
07:
Teach Like a Pirate by Dave Burgess
A quick, fun read to reenergize and add some inspiration into your teaching career! Used several activities from the book in PLC classes.
08:
Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
Along with effective leadership comes the ability to organize not only your time, but your possessions and that also includes your clutter. In order to be most effective (and organized), you have to take time to declutter, decipher emotions attached to possessions, and make room for positive energy.
09:
Make Your Bed by William McRaven
A quick, motivating read to remind you that life doesn't just hand out cups of lemonade to those who are thirsty. It is about setting goals, achieving goals and not giving up that makes you who you are. Reading the narratives in the book will inspire you to continue your journey and pursue your goals whatever they may be.
10:
Lead Like a Pirate by Shelley Burgess
This book packs the same punch as Teach Like a Pirate to kickstart your ideas to become an even better leader. The stories and ideas present in the text will engage you from rethinking bus duty to how you hire for your building. Are you creating an environment where people want to be or where they countdown to the holidays?
