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.