Book Review: "The Essential 55" by Ron Clark

This is a must-read for all teachers, principals, parents, school board members, and anyone else with a vested interest in education. "The Essential 55" sets out Ron Clark's set of classroom "rules," but does more than just list a code of conduct. It is an easily accessible, inspiring philosophy of education, from one of our finest educators.

Ron Clark, winner of the 2000 Disney's Teacher of the Year Award, did not follow the traditional path into teaching. His methods were irregular, and he definitely thought outside the box, sometimes bucking the system in order to serve his students. It paid off.

During his career as an elementary school teacher in both rural North Carolina and in New York City, he developed his set of "Essential 55," which outlined his high expectations for his students, and taught them both academic and character lessons. By instilling these "rules" in his students, he gave them a way to be successful in school and in life.

To get his students to buy into his program, Mr. Clark overwhelmed them with enthusiasm. He gave out his home and cell phone numbers, and encouraged them to call if they had questions about their homework. He worked extra hours, organized donut sales, and recruited community support. His level of commitment to his students is incredible, even daunting for mere mortal teachers.

And, best of all, his methods worked! His students achieved all kinds of educational miracles... including acing standardized tests and working for a field trip to Washington D.C. Mr. Clark's unorthodox style worked in both the rural and urban settings, and he is a beacon for teachers around our country.

Mr. Clark's incredible story was recently told in a TV=movie staring Matthew Perry, and he is currently directing the Ron Clark Academy, in Atlanta. Visit his website at: www.RonClarkAcademy.com.

I recommend this book to just about everyone who is involved with children because, while it is written by an elementary school teacher, it really deals with the basic skills we all need to develop to function in society. While we may not all be able to have the same success as Mr. Clark, we can all strive to implement at least some of his "Essential 55," and teach as if what we do matters.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Book Review: "The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell" by Oren Harari

Being a military brat during the period in which Colin Powell was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Powell was a familiar name around our household. Having watched him during the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, I grew impressed with his composure as Secretary of State during those difficult times. If ever there was a man who might have something important to say about leadership, it is Powell.

So, it was with great enthusiasm that I set out to read "The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell" by Oren Harari. Overall, the book does a competent job of outlining the principles Powell leads by. Oren writes clearly and manages to make Powell's leadership principles (which often relate to military specifics) accessible to business leaders. If, like me, you are a person whttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifho respects General Powell and wish to view leadership from his prospective, this book is a good start.

The book is divided into three parts. Part I, "Powell as Provocateur," centers on how Powell acts as an agent of change. Harari paints a picture of Powell as flexible, empowering, and this perhaps contradicts the stereotype of rigid military leaders. Part II, "Powell on Strategy and Execution," describes how Powell trusts those people serving under him and relies on people instead of plans.

However, I found Part III to be the most interesting. In "The Powell Character," we learn more about who General Powell was as a person, and how his personality affects how he leads. Harari describes Powell's leadership style as heavy on personal integrity and character. But, not only does Powell expect it of his soldiers and staff, he personifies these characteristics. Additionally, Powell encourages staff to live and play hard, to be devoted family members, and to have a life outside the mission.

"The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell" succeeds in expanding Harari's article "Quotations From Chairman Powell: A Leadership Primer," which is included as an appendices. Having read that article, I think most folks will be satisfied by just reading that article. If, however, you are sincerely interested in Powell, the whole book can serve to indulge your interests.

I give it 3.5 of 5 stars.