Taoist Lessons for Educational Leaders: Gentle Pathways to Resolving Conflicts

(Paperback)

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This book explores ways in which educational leaders can apply the wisdom of the Tao in their day-to-day work in schools. It offers an alternative to the standard ways of western thinking to give the leader more possibilities when confronting a situation. We tend to value immediate and decisive action, winning, directing, and getting ones way. Taoist Lessons for Educational Leaders offers another way of approaching the workplace. We can also value waiting and reflection before acting, seeing all participants as winners or at least no one as a loser, following as a form of leadership, and giving away some victories, as beneficial to the governance of a school. There is more than one way to win and more than one way assert ones authority, as illustrated by this book.

Reviews

In his new book, Dan Heller brings the wisdom of ancient Chinese texts to the day-to-day management of K-12 schools. Todays principals face significant financial and regulatory challenges as they work to ensure quality educations for our children. Hellers careful review of the Taoist classics offers school leaders valuable points of reflection and inspiration for their work with students, teachers, and school boards. Drawing on his more than thirty years in education as a teacher, principal and curriculum expert, Heller provides useful case studies to deepen understanding. Taoist Lessons for Educational Leaders is a excellent resource for educators leading in our global context. -- Mary B. Greene, Coordinator of the Windham Southeast and Windham Southwest Supervisory Unions' Asian Studies Programs
Dan Heller clearly has a great understanding of the spirit of Taoism and it was helpful to have real life examples to interpret those abstract concepts that are sometimes hard to understand. The tone of his writing shows great respect to the readers. There is a strong sense of guidance and encouragement in the message.... [Dan Heller] shows his knowledge of the Chinese philosophy and his experiences as an educational administrator. -- Yuan-Hsiu Lien, Teacher of Chinese language, The Eaglebrook School
Dan Heller's citations of the philosophies of Lao Tzu and Sun Tzu provide relevant historical comparisons for current educational leaders as they relate to reducing internal conflict, developing common goals, and providing consistent leadership. Dan uses practical leadership experiences to develop relevant case studies for practicing administrators. The references of the Taoist approach of contemplation and reflection is a helpful guide to any educational leader. -- Ron Stahley, Superintendent of Schools, Windham Southeast Supervisory Union

Author Bio

Daniel Heller has had a thirty-year career in education including positions as an English teacher, English department head, principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, and district curriculum coordinator. He has published a number of books and articles on educational topics such as leadership, instructional supervision, and curriculum.