The Relentless Pursuit of Excellence
Lessons From a Transformational Leader
- Richard D. Sagor - Washington State University, USA
- Deborah Rickey - Grand Canyon University, USA
Foreword by Sheldon H. Berman
How to bring out the best in your staff—and in yourself
Research shows that the single variable that makes the most difference in student performance is the quality of the teacher. How do we keep teachers motivated in the face of increased pressure for grades, class sizes and media attention? How do we attract and retain high-quality teachers? This inspiring text offers a refreshing alternative to the portfolio and high-stakes accountability models of school improvement. Based on the successful methods of Dealous Cox, The Relentless Pursuit of Excellence describes a leadership philosophy based on the search for wisdom through personal reflection and community. The authors share their experience with this leadership style and document the sustainable results of transformational leaders working with teachers as partners rather than adversaries. These results include
- Consistently improved teacher performance
- Improved teacher quality
- Greater professional satisfaction for teachers
- Stronger community support for schools
Richard Sagor and Deborah Rickey have tracked this established leadership model for more than 30 years. Their work shows how, when sustained over time, these leadership principles have transformed professional behavior throughout school districts and made a long-term difference for teachers and students.
“This book provides a hands-on approach to leadership. The story of how Dea Cox transformed education through his leadership style is worth promoting.”
“At a time when unarguable strong leadership and identifiable heroes are harder to find, the story of Dealous Cox provides both hope and faith that good leadership can facilitate solving some of the complex issues that face public education in the 21st century.”
"Chapters offer a concrete formula for bringing out the best in school leaders, presenting a proven leadership model that works well in the school environment."
