This course serves as part of the foundation for students choosing to pursue a career in elementary or secondary school administration, including athletic administration and coaching.  Course content is based upon the unique challenges and demands faced by contemporary school leaders, and is both interactive and reflective.  In addition to direct instruction the class will feature learning through case studies, class discussions, and personal reflection.  Students will be challenged to assess their individual skills, talents, and potential as leaders, and then develop a professional improvement plan that moves them toward their goal of becoming school administrators.  Topics include organizational theory and behavior, administrative theory and practice, decision-making, organizational communications, historical perspectives, and current issues and trends.

Upon completion of this course students should be able to:

• Identify key theories of educational leadership and administration.
• Differentiate between leadership and management.
• Understand how changing approaches to teaching and learning affect the responsibilities of school leaders.
• Demonstrate effective communications within the educational setting.
• Work collaboratively with others to build consensus.
• Become familiar with on-going issues in educational leadership and policy through review of journals and other relevant research.
• Assess their leadership style and determine areas where improvement will be beneficial.
• Develop and appreciation for the complexities of organizational change in school settings.
• Understand and appreciate the need for balance of the various duties and responsibilities of a school leader.
• Involve and empower stakeholders to articulate and accomplish the mission and vision of a school community.