It's All About Leadership in Schools...What works and some of what doesn't! Counselors, Culture and Community - Paperback

My first book, "It's All About Leadership in Schools... What works and some of what doesn't," highlights the significance of prioritizing student learning through a responsive school culture. I shared real stories and linked them with research, emphasizing the importance of enthusiasm in leadership, while always focusing on student learning. My final words in my first book were: We need to continue to grow in order to improve our surroundings and ourselves. In my career, the internet and the heightened use of social media have been two significant variables of change. However, the humanity of leadership remains unchanged. It's still about relationships, compassion, empathy, hopefulness, trust, vision, AND ENTHUSIASM! I started as Instructional Aid. I became a Teacher, Counselor, Assistant Principal, Principal, Director, and Assistant Superintendent. I ended my career last year as the Superintendent of Pajaro Valley USD. I taught full-time in the School of Education at San Jose State University for 8 years.

In my second book "It's All About Leadership in Schools...What works and some of what doesn't! Counseling, Culture and Community", the focus is on the important role that school counselors play, building an effective student-centered school culture and building bridges to the community on behalf of student learning.Organizing a successful school is complex, but effective leadership always centers on student learning and achievement. Indeed, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) training is titled "Focus on Learning!" This book will highlight factors that create a positive school culture, fostering the best environment for student learning. Many variables are involved in building and sustaining a positive school culture. A school's culture will form, regardless of a good design initiative. Frequent changes in school principals can hinder the development of a cohesive culture and impede student learning, as one example! What are some programs that enhance the culture of a school? How can organizations in a community support a school's cultural evolution? This book again provides examples and real-life stories, focusing on topics such as involving community organizations and incorporating additional state or federally funded support programs. I will highlight existing initiatives and programs in schools, including sports, agriculture education, alternative education, and other programs that can positively influence the overall school environment. I also hope to show that all aspects of school culture are enhanced when school counselors are in positions to influence policy and practices!

Murry Schekman is a retired K-12 school administrator and college professor at SJSU in the School of Education. He has three grown kids and four grandchildren. He is often found providing feedback to school leaders and former students, but his favorite is to read to his two youngest grandchildren's classroom - T-K and 2^nd grade. He takes pride in hiking with his dog six miles every day!