Foreword by Roland S. Barth

'The author's observation and analyzing of the various aspects of listening certainly point out the 'art of administration.'" Knowing how to listen and accurately interpret what is heard is a true art. Readers should study this very closely' - Richard Flynn, Assistant Professor, College of Education, Murray State University

'The author understands and listens to the needs of the educational leader and provides useful tools for coping with the diverse needs and challenges of the educational environment' - Michael Purdy, Professor of Communication, Governors State University

'Tate provides insights into the needs of the speakers and strategies to improve listening effectiveness, illustrating how enhancing listening skills would benefit the entire school culture' - Katherine Taber, Elementary Principal, Jefferson Elementary School, Norman, OK

Develop strategic listening skills to help advance your overall communication expertise!

The ability to communicate effectively is an essential characteristic of effective leaders. Listening strategically is a way of making colleagues, parents, students, and others feel that their ideas and beliefs are of value. Jeannine Tate and Dennis Dunklee's practitioner friendly book concentrates on the importance of listening as a critical interpersonal skill for school leaders in guiding their organizations. Strategic Listening for School Leaders offers valuable, practical insights and research on how listening, serious conversation, and thoughtful dialogue strengthens school leaders' ability to understand others' strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. By learning to listen, the authors demonstrate how a leader can "bring out the best" in everyone.

Focusing on an effective style of listening, the authors present:

- The basic theories underlying strategic listening

- Succinct examples of strategic listening in practice

- The positive impact of strategic listening on school leadership and school climate

Strategic Listening for School Leaders will help to advance your overall communication expertise and will open a whole new world of possibilities for student success. A powerful way to build a professional learning community is to build a community of strategic listeners!