By

Robert H. Palestini, Ed.D.
 Dean, Graduate and Continuing Studies, Saint Joseph's University
 With a Foreword by Thomas F. O'Brien, Superintendent of  Schools,
 Archdiocese of Philadelphia


• The first comprehensive  book on administering,
   leading, and improving Catholic schools
   
• Presents the best research-based  school
   leadership practices within a Catholic perspective
   
• Details school management  basics: hiring, budgeting, complying with mandates, fund raising, maintenance---and  more
   
• Shows how to plan and  carry out needed changes-with staff cooperation
   
• Establishes a framework  for educational decisions informed by Catholic tradition
   
• For principals, administrators,  parish leaders, and board members


This volume addresses the spiritual and practical dimensions  of school administration in an important and growing segment of education,  the Catholic school. Using elements from the Gospels, Ignatius, and church teachings,  the author establishes a conscientious framework for understanding and making  day-to-day administrative decisions in light of the Catholic tradition.

In contrast to other books, this volume presents the techniques  of how to run a school. For current and aspiring administrators, the text explains  research-based practices pertaining to all phases of school management-from  budgeting to curriculum and special education. It utilizes actual and case studies  to illustrate how administrative problems can be identified-and solved. Numerous  ways are given for aligning the educational, religious, and humane elements  of administration.

For readers seeking to make improvements, Catholic School  Administration demonstrates proven techniques for effecting changes in schools,  with minimal discord and full involvement.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the book presents the  best recent thinking on what it takes to assume a true leadership role in a  school-to be not only an effective manager but also a respected leader with  the skills to bring together teachers, parents, students, and parishioners towards  the common goal of a superior Catholic Christian education.


 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgments
 Foreword
 Introduction Catholic School Administration: Leading the Nation's Finest

Chapter One-- The Primacy of Catholic Identity and Culture
 Chapter Two-- A Catholic Leadership Model
 Chapter Three-- Leading With Mind and Heart
 Chapter Four-- The Fiduciary and Legal Responsibilities of Catholic School Leaders
 Chapter Five-- Dealing with Student Diversity
 Chapter Six-- The Unique Structure and Culture of Catholic Schools
 Chapter Seven-- Motivating Faculty and Staff
 Chapter Eight-- Effective Communication
 Chapter Nine-- Managing Conflict in a Catholic School Setting
 Chapter Ten-- Decision Making and Strategic Planning
 Chapter Eleven-- Effecting Change in Catholic Schools
 Chapter Twelve-- Catholic Education in the New Century
 Subject Index

ISBN: 1-885432-30-5. Hardcover. 270pp.+ index. Copyright 2004. $39.95. Pub. Date: December 4, 2003