Leadership as Lunacy: And Other Metaphors for Educational Leadership

"This book will challenge, enlighten, and transform. The authors invite us to re-examine our core values as educational leaders, reconsider our priorities, and place the humanity of children at the center of our work." -Nancy Skerritt, Assistant Superintendent,Tahoma School District, Maple Valley, WA "By their analysis, Lumby and English expose the power of language to shape meaning. By their skill, they illustrate the power of language to engage and enrich. Their work is an important contribution to how we understand and practice leadership in all fields." -Steven R. Thompson, Coordinator, School Leadership Program, Miami University An imaginative approach to rethinking and revitalizing your leadership practice! Research has shown that metaphors inspire leaders to reflect on their mind-sets, behaviors, practices, and approaches, leading to new perspectives on their roles. Using such thought-provoking and unexpected metaphors as "leadership as war" and "leadership as lunacy," the authors draw readers through historical perspectives and cognitive possibilities that inspire, resolve, confuse, and provoke reflection on the state of leadership in education. This book examines the current discourse on educational leadership models, behaviors, and roles, and helps school and district leaders: Understand the power of metaphor and how metaphors have been used to define leadership Develop a deeper connection to their roles and their approaches Initiate change in themselves and in others By inspiring creative thinking and critical reflection, Leadership as Lunacy helps leaders achieve personal and professional growth and invigorate their professional relationships!