Читать книгу How Schools Thrive - Susan K. Sparks - Страница 4

All of us have had coaches who played an important role in our lives. To us, both personally and professionally, Rick and Becky DuFour were the consummate coaches. They were our biggest cheerleaders and supporters. They made us believe that we could accomplish anything and were making a difference in the world.

As leaders, authors, colleagues, and friends, Rick and Becky showed us how to lead by example. When faced with a challenge, they would roll up their sleeves and work side by side with us, articulating a clear vision of the desired future and identifying specific strategies that would lead to better outcomes.

Rick and Becky also showed us the importance of having a sense of urgency about this work. They didn’t get caught up in the over-analysis of perceptions, data, or time-consuming planning processes. Instead, they led their schools and districts by learning together, translating research into practice, creating solutions to problems, and moving quickly to turn ideas into concrete action steps. They showed us that talking endlessly wouldn’t solve anything; only people doing the work would.

We are forever grateful to have been coached, mentored, and influenced by Rick and Becky. They were masterful educators who embodied the essential elements of collective inquiry, continuous improvement, action orientation, and a focus on results each and every day.

—TOM MANY AND SUSAN SPARKS

“If you have seen further it is on the shoulders of giants.”

—Sir Isaac Newton

To my “giants,” Dr. Deena Tarleton and my late dear friend Dr. George Dietrich: Any career path that spans over thirty years and many changes requires mentors who are willing to walk beside you. Thank you for affording me the gift of seeing further as a teacher and a leader and allowing me to thrive. Your imprint on my career and my heart remain.

—MICHAEL MAFFONI

To Laura Jacobi, Carrie Korican, and Sunshine Weber, the best teacher team and group of friends a girl could ever ask for. Of course, I could not have written a single page without the love and support of my Tony and Elise. I love you both with all my heart.

—TESHA FERRIBY THOMAS