William R. Holland

During and after his term as interim Central Falls superintendent in 2006-2007, Bill Holland sought answers to why some Central Falls High School students had school success while over half of their classmates failed to graduate. Much can be learned from how these students survived in a chronically low-achieving school located in the poorest community in the state. Holland provides behind-the-scenes details on the issues of poverty, ineffective teaching, and cultural differences while also advising students, parents, and teachers on ways to gain greater educational success. Before the book was completed, a federal and state mandate unexpectedly resulted in the superintendent having to adopt a turn-around model and fire the entire high school faculty and staff-an action that set off a firestorm between the school and state leadership and the American Federation of Teachers. The conflict made national headlines and was mentioned by President Obama as a prime example of a 'last resort' approach in reforming failing inner-city schools.

During and after his term as interim Central Falls superintendent in 2006-2007, Bill Holland sought answers to why some Central Falls High School students had school success while over half of their classmates failed to graduate. Much can be learned from how these students survived in a chronically low-achieving school located in the poorest community in the state. Holland provides behind-the-scenes details on the issues of poverty, ineffective teaching, and cultural differences while also advising students, parents, and teachers on ways to gain greater educational success. Before the book was completed, a federal and state mandate unexpectedly resulted in the superintendent having to adopt a turn-around model and fire the entire high school faculty and staff-an action that set off a firestorm between the school and state leadership and the American Federation of Teachers. The conflict made national headlines and was mentioned by President Obama as a prime example of a "last resort" approach in reforming failing inner-city schools.

Selecting School Leaders provides the accounts of a novice elementary principal, an experienced elementary principal, and a veteran superintendent who encounter considerable difficulties in their positions and are forced to resign. Holland explains why leadership failed in each case and how it might have been avoided. This book also focuses on matching the needs of a school organization with the right leader and relates the leadership theories of servant leadership, emotional intelligence, and change to issues highlighted in each case study. Includes: · A brief analysis of each case and a series of commonalties found in the cases · A list of recommendations that serve as a helpful guide to school leaders · Tips to executive committees on conducting improved searches This guide is of particular interest to school boards, school administrators, college professors, students in leadership courses, and executive search committees. Parents and community leaders will also find the book valuable.

Selecting School Leaders provides the accounts of a novice elementary principal, an experienced elementary principal, and a veteran superintendent who encounter considerable difficulties in their positions and are forced to resign. Holland explains why leadership failed in each case and how it might have been avoided. This book also focuses on matching the needs of a school organization with the right leader and relates the leadership theories of servant leadership, emotional intelligence, and change to issues highlighted in each case study. Includes: _ A brief analysis of each case and a series of commonalties found in the cases _ A list of recommendations that serve as a helpful guide to school leaders _ Tips to executive committees on conducting improved searches This guide is of particular interest to school boards, school administrators, college professors, students in leadership courses, and executive search committees. Parents and community leaders will also find the book valuable.

William S. Holland: father, brother, husband, businessman, builder, factory worker, state employee, schoolboy, soldier, honored veteran of WWII and friend to thousands. This is the story of his life, full of love and loss, from his small upbringing as the son of an Ohio coal miner to the distinguished family man and community leader he is today. Follow his journey through his words in this truly American tale.

William S. Holland: father, brother, husband, businessman, builder, factory worker, state employee, schoolboy, soldier, honored veteran of WWII and friend to thousands. This is the story of his life, full of love and loss, from his small upbringing as the son of an Ohio coal miner to the distinguished family man and community leader he is today. Follow his journey through his words in this truly American tale.