In his book Becoming A School Leader, Charles Bonnici offers a common sense approach to seeking and securing an entry level position as a school-based leader. He covers all the bases: the need to confront one’s self as to why such a position is desired; the need to understand fully the dynamics of the application and interview processes associated with the position; and the need to be aware of and prepared for the demands of the certification examinations required for these positions. Thorough attention is given to the examinations, citing types of exams (on-demand and simulated school-based), all illustrated through sample questions and responses – responses demonstrating critical thinking at the upper end of “the taxonomy”, i.e., analysis, synthesis and sound judgment. The book concludes with commentary on professional portfolios, on-line profiles and professional resumes.
David D. Avdul, retired professor of education, Pace University The items on budget were terrific and reflect my own experiences in schools in Pennsylvania and New York, where one-third of my time was spent on finance issues. I wish this book existed when I started my quest for supervisory licensing. The information contained in the preparation elements provides insight into how the school leader’s day can really be. After my four decades in education, I concur that the various situations are very similar to what school leaders will face once they are “on the job”! This is a real guide that can help prepare the potential school leader for what they will encounter in the "real world", not just train the candidate in the theoretical or academic aspects of school leadership in order to pass a certification program.
Dean Galitsis, retired, superintendent of Rochester Area School District, Rochester, PA Becoming a School Leader is very honest and practical for those considering a future as school leaders. The book raises importance questions and issues for potential school leaders to think about. The model exam and interview questions are thorough and the explanations make sense. The exemplary answers are excellent. This book would be useful as a supplementary text in an initial leadership course, helping students decide if they want to become school leaders. It would be even more useful in a leadership internship seminar as students move closer to taking their certification exam and closer to the application and interview processes. Finally, principals might recommend this book to teachers they are grooming for leadership positions and their assistant principals who might be ready to advance to the principalship.
John Lee, professor of educational leadership, Fordham University Becoming a School Leader is a wonderful book for prospective educational leaders compiled by a master teacher of teachers. Bonnici’s wealth of experiences as a New York City principal and administrative mentor coupled with his many years as an accomplished university instructor provide an incomparable blend of practical insights and vital suggestions to compliment any serious class discussion of administrative preparation. As all great teachers, Bonnici synthesizes the complex and illusory workings of school administration and internal politics into understandable parts to be effectively analyzed, dissected and formulated into convincing strategies for success. The book requires thoughtful interactions among the readers in examining the full range of issues confronting the modern administrator. It burrows below the usual surface discussions to consider multiple perspectives on anticipating as well as resolving real problems. Maintaining a high bar of ethical and professional expectations for candidates through each chapter, the book is replete with numerous vivid and practical examples for the reader to consider. Bonnici brings his passion for school leadership, time tested experience and reflective balance to the everyday work of school administration in a series of reality based case studies. Becoming a School Leader provides clarity and guidance to all serious educators considering a career in school leadership and is a must read for school administration classrooms.
Arthur T. Maloney, coordinator of the educational leadership program, Pace University, School of Education