Running a charter school is a challenging and unique experience. Each school is different with a variety of needs. From diverse student bodies to specialized curriculum, no school can, or should, be ran the same way, but we believe that every school should read, internalize and implement the following lessons from these five game-changing books.
1. The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life by Boyd Varty
When running a charter school, you will encounter times where you may feel.... lost. The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life brings perspective and teaches the important principle that no journey is a straight trajectory from point A to point B.
It's okay to make mistakes as they are necessary steps on our journey. When we feel stuck, finding stillness and trusting in our instincts can be powerful in guiding our decision making.
2. Leadership and Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute
Does your team ever feel that they are stuck in regards to their internal communication? Or maybe they struggle to have empathy for others? None of us are perfect, but this book will help YOU to focus on getting YOU "out of the box." (You'll learn more about "the box" in the book)
At Charter Connect, this book is read to help us view others as people rather than tools, objects or obstacles. Empathetic and effective communication bloom when the principles in this book are followed.
3. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
This book is a unique recommendation. We fear that some sections of this book might be misinterpreted by some readers, but we stand whole-heartedly behind the four main principals taught.
Agreement 1: Be Impeccable With Your Word
Agreement 2: Don't Take Anything Personally
Agreement 3: Don't Make Assumptions
Agreement 4: Always Do Your Best
Could you imagine if your faculty never lied, never got offended and never made assumptions? What if they always tried their best? It might be tough to imagine, but simply by presenting these principles and applying them to the best of your ability, you will see your school culture develop and relationships form.
4. The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday
Running a charter school is HARD! Congratulations, you are officially crazy for working in this incredible, difficult, amazing, tiring, fulfilling world of educating our youth.
This book is a must read. It will give your leadership the stoic mindset necessary to greet and overcome challenges with confidence rather than allow them to embed discouragement amongst your team members.
5. The Noticer by Andy Andrews
Sometimes we drift into the hustle and bustle of running a charter school. This book helps to slow things down and reminds us the worth of each and every soul. Our perspective and genuine care for others can shape a school into a safe place for communities to blossom.
If you ever feel like you're lost in the sauce, this should be your next read/listen.
What Are Your Thoughts?
When you're done reading these books, comment below or contact our team to tell us your take aways. Do you agree with our list? What books are missing that you would recommend? Have you implemented any of these principles?
Please contact our team to tell us your thoughts. We wish you and your team an incredible school year.
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