This is my kind of book. As an experienced educator, I resonate with the author's assertions, with his documentation, and with his suggested solutions. Yes, the book is about evaluation, but more importantly it is about leadership in education. Giordano writes with an informal, entertaining, yet clear and decisive style that takes on current educational orthodoxies of permissiveness, nonjudgementalism, and "school climate" based cultures. Some of his conclusions may seem obvious while others are very insightful. All make the reader think and be challenged to action. This should be required reading in all educational leadership programs. -- Dave Sebald, PhD, associate professor emeritus, University of Texas, San Antonio; director of Advanced Instructional Media; public school teacher, 20 years, instrumental, vocal, and general music
Dr. Giordano has a remarkable insight into the challenges that public school principals face today. In our schools, succumbing to the fads and political correctness of the day, we are harming our students and, as a result, our country's future. His book is a must-read for anyone involved in education, and particularly those making decisions about education. It is my hope that Dr. Giordano's book will be a catalyst for educators to begin making the changes he suggests, those that will result in better schooling for our students -- Barbara Smethills, BA, MA, public schools teacher, 31 years, home economics, history, social studies
Dr. Giordano presents a thorough analysis of the system of teacher evaluation used in American public schools, concluding that the system is both inefficient and ineffective, and offers insightful recommendations on how to improve the system for evaluating teacher performance. I was impressed by the depth of Giordano's understanding of the issue, and the clarity and insight of his presentation and recommendations. This book will provide a foundation for a much needed discussion on improving the system that should be of great interest to educators, administrators, and parents. -- Michael R. Phillips, BA, MS, public school teacher, 36 years, history, political science