Standout School Leaders: Challenging What It Means to Lead

Bridge the gap between managing well and leading for impact. In this must-read guide for education leaders, Alan C. Jones expertly distinguishes between Administrators Good at their Jobs (AGJs) and Standout School Leaders (SSLs) by exploring the qualities that make select leaders truly exceptional. While AGJs focus on maintaining effective school operations, SSLs address the gaps within institutional systems to create environments that foster genuine learning and growth, balance institutional demands with innovative educational approaches, and align day-to-day operations with the deeper mission of schooling. You’ll find chapter openers that contrast how SSLs and AGJs approach fundamental administrative functions and closing questions to support personal reflection and application of the concept at your school site. Additional features include: Vignettes that illustrate daily challenges faced by administrators and contrasting leadership responses SSL Tips to offer insights into how SSLs think differently about schooling goals End-of-Chapter Resources to deepen understanding of key concepts Jones empowers education leaders with the knowledge and tools to integrate innovative practices into their roles. Whether you′re a principal, department head, or district leader, this book provides the guidance needed to transition from managing to leading by fostering environments where both educators and students can thrive.