Stand out like you’re 7 feet tall - how to think and act differently as a K-12 leader
Tall people stand out in a crowd. Tall people think and act differently: people like author Steven Bollar. He has spent his career as a principal and administrator creating school cultures that make students excited to learn and achieve their goals. In Stand Tall Leadership, Steven shows you that it doesn't matter what your natural height really is - you can stand tall in everything you do by thinking and acting differently from those around you. Designed for K-12 leaders, this unique and engaging book helps you overcome challenges in your school, manage effectively, inspire your staff, build strong relationships, communicate clearly, and much more.
The Stand Tall Leadership philosophy is all about creating the best possible environment at your school. Strong leadership skills are essential for making better decisions, maintaining your focus and priority, and maximizing outcomes with students, staff, parents, and the entire community. The principles and techniques in this book will strengthen your own leadership skills and assist you in developing effective leaders within your school. Providing hands-on tools and real-world guidance, this valuable resource will help you:
- Connect with staff, understand their needs, and set them up for success
- Keep your best employees and leaders right where they are, not chasing other opportunities
- Assessyour leadership skills and make immediate, meaningful improvements
- Maintain focus in any situation to increase productivity and get outstanding results
- Repair damaged relationships that slow down progress and impede success
Stand Tall Leadership: Stand Tall to Think Differently and Lead Successfully is a must-read for all K-12 leaders and administrators, as well as K-12 educators looking to develop their leadership skills.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Stand Tall Leadership 1
Chapter One: Stand Tall Leaders Should Not Blend In 7
1.1. Stand Tall Traits of a Good Leader 9
1.2. Hide and Seek 13
1.3. Step It Up 15
1.4. Timing 15
1.5. Practice? It’s Just Practice! 16
Chapter Two: Stand Tall Leaders Have Influence 21
2.1. Influence 22
2.2. Integrity 24
2.3. Compliance vs. Commitment 27
Chapter Three: Stand Tall Leaders Get Results 33
3.1. The Results Formula 34
3.2. Don’t Let a Good Crisis Go to Waste 52
3.3. Get It When You Don’t Get It 54
3.4. Hallway Brand 57
Chapter Four: Stand Tall Leaders Value Relationships 63
4.1. Expectations 64
4.2. How to Move Past Unhealthy Expectations 67
4.3. Selflessness 68
4.4. The Top Four Ways to Maintain and Attract the Best Substitute Teachers 69
4.5. Retreat! 71
4.6. Reasons to NOT Recognize 71
4.7. I Just Cannot Help You
Chapter Five: Stand Tall Leaders Make Strategic, Smart, and Creative Decisions 85
5.1. What Is Climate and Culture? 86
5.2. Respect and Value 86
5.3. Climate 87
5.4. Culture 87
5.5. Decisions 92
5.6. Get Over It 98
5.7. The Power of Now 102
5.8. Efficiency vs. Effectiveness 106
Chapter Six: Stand Tall Leaders Take Action 111
6.1. BADASS 112
6.2. One Action 119
Chapter Seven: Stand Tall Leaders Use Their Voice 129
7.1. Stand Tall Speaking 130
7.2. Parent Phone Communication 138
7.3. Uncomfortable Silence 152
Chapter Eight: Stand Tall Leaders Are Reflective 159
8.1. Hold on a Second 160
8.2. Stand Tall Professional Development 162
8.3. Standing Tall Words of Power 165
8.4. Three Sides of Leadership Growth 168
8.5. Be a Finisher! 172
Are You a Stand Tall Leader? 179
About the Author 181
Index 183
