Learning By Heart

"This engagingly written, wise monograph examines the meaning of true educational reform and offers concrete strategies for achieving fundamental, systemic school transformation. In keeping with his earlier work (Improving Schools from Within), Barth argues that school improvement requires significant changes in the culture of schools, a task best accomplished by school professionals. . . . a jargon-free, thoughtful perspective on how to make schools better places for those who reside within them."
-CHOICE

"In a very large chorus of proponents of school reform, Roland Barth's voice stands out. . . . he restores the zest and sacredness of learning-the heart of education."
-Terrence E. Deal, Irving Melbo Professor, Rossier School, University of Southern California

"A critical read for all educators who care about making good schools for students and their teachers."
-Ann Lieberman, senior scholar, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and emeritus professor, Teachers College, Columbia University

"Plain-spoken and persuasive convictions about schoolkeeping by a wise and humane educator."
-Theodore R. Sizer, chair, Coalition of Essential Schools, Inc.

"There is learning here for anyone who cares about education and how to create dynamic schools. Roland Barth brings both flaming passion and cool thoughts to this powerful book."
-Yvonne Chang, principal, Vaughn Next Century Learning Center

A decade after publication of his best-selling book, Barth returns to the schoolhouse. Drawing from a career committed to building schools rich in community, learning, and leadership, he shows how to accomplish the most difficult task of school reform-transforming a school's culture so that it will be hospitable to human learning. In an engaging conversational style, he suggests how school people can become the architects, engineers, and designers of their own schools-and of their own destinies.