Thomas J. Starmack – författare

Beyond the Classroom Walls is a collection of recent peer-reviewed articles matched with practical teaching tools. The selected articles include relevant content that allow readers to explore various education settings: rural, urban, elementary and secondary schools, and university environments.The book encourages students to view home, school, and community partnerships through a broad lens. It addresses core aspects of the topic, creates additional insight through unique, realistic assignments and class activities, and encourages culturally responsive involvement. The first chapters examine involvement frameworks and a variety of home, school, and community partnership standards. Students will also explore the importance of pre-service teacher training, common logistical and psychological barriers impeding involvement, practical strategies for breaking down the barriers, and how to establish reciprocal relationships between families, schools, and the larger community. Special features of the text include graphic organizers, field work applications, extended reflections, case studies, and action research. Beyond the Classroom Walls is best suited for use as a primary or supplemental text in undergraduate teacher preparation programs and practica.

The anthology Organizational Behavior: A New Three Dimensional Leadership Paradigm introduces learners to the complexities of effective leadership, organizational behavior, and strategic planning. Over the course of the book the material addresses leadership types and functions, organizational change, capacity building, strategic planning, a three dimensional leadership model, and three “E's” of leadership –emotional intelligence, empowerment, and ethics.Each chapter includes special features that enhance learning. Investigation activities such as field work, mini-projects, and recommended reading and research allow students to delve more deeply into the topics. “Lessons Learned” segments highlight key aspects of the topics from the perspective of the author/editor's personal learning and success. Targeted discussion questions encourage classroom discourse or can be used for individual reflection. Authentic assignments and case studies prepare students to be organizational leaders. Organizational Behavior compiles the best ideas on organizational leadership and connects them using an original, three dimensional paradigm. This anthology is well suited to classes on educational leadership, and can also be a useful tool for any organization pursuing a program of professional development.