Education Administration: Top 10 Best Books

Education Administration is a critical field that shapes the future of schools and educational institutions. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a seasoned principal, or someone interested in the intricacies of educational management, the right book can provide invaluable insights. Below, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best books on Education Administration, each offering unique perspectives and practical advice. These books are must-reads for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of educational leadership and administration.

Author: Alexandra Clark

Bio: Alexandra Clark is a former school principal turned educational consultant with over 20 years of experience in school leadership and administration. She specializes in helping educators transition into leadership roles and is passionate about improving school systems for both teachers and students.


Top 10 Best Books on Education Administration

10. Arise: The Art of Transformational Coaching

Author: Elena Aguilar
5.0 out of 5 stars (4 ratings)

Arise: The Art of Transformational Coaching

Transformational coaching is a powerful tool in education administration, and Elena Aguilar’s book is a comprehensive guide on the subject. “Arise” delves into the art of coaching educators, helping them unlock their potential to lead schools effectively.

Why We Choose It
“Arise” stands out because it offers a practical approach to coaching, with real-world examples and strategies that can be implemented immediately. Aguilar’s experience and passion for educational transformation make this book a valuable resource for administrators.

Fun Fact
Elena Aguilar is also the author of “The Art of Coaching,” which has been a bestseller in the education sector.

Category: Education Administration
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9. Get Better Faster: A 90-Day Plan for Coaching New Teachers

Author: Paul Bambrick-Santoyo
4.7 out of 5 stars (959 ratings)

Get Better Faster: A 90-Day Plan for Coaching New Teachers

This book is essential for administrators focused on teacher development. Paul Bambrick-Santoyo provides a detailed 90-day plan that ensures new teachers receive the support they need to succeed in the classroom.

Why We Choose It
Bambrick-Santoyo’s methodical approach to coaching is what makes this book indispensable. The step-by-step guide is both practical and proven, making it a favorite among school leaders.

Fun Fact
Paul Bambrick-Santoyo is also the author of “Leverage Leadership 2.0,” another highly recommended book on this list.

Category: Education Administration
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8. Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them

Author: Ross W. Greene, Ph.D.
4.7 out of 5 stars (1,959 ratings)

Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them

Behavioral challenges in schools can be overwhelming, but Ross W. Greene offers a compassionate approach in “Lost at School.” This book is a must-read for education administrators seeking to understand and address student behavior effectively.

Why We Choose It
The book’s emphasis on empathy and collaboration in dealing with behavioral issues is what makes it essential. Greene’s Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model is a game-changer in education administration.

Fun Fact
Dr. Ross W. Greene is also known for his pioneering work on the CPS model, which has been implemented in schools worldwide.

Category: Education Administration
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7. COGAT Test Prep Grade 4 Level 10: Gifted and Talented Test Preparation Book

Author: Gateway Gifted Resources
4.5 out of 5 stars (180 ratings)

COGAT Test Prep Grade 4 Level 10: Gifted and Talented Test Preparation Book

Though primarily a test prep book, “COGAT Test Prep” offers invaluable insights for administrators overseeing gifted and talented programs. Understanding these tests helps administrators better support their students and teachers.

Why We Choose It
The book is a comprehensive guide that demystifies the testing process, making it easier for administrators to assist their gifted students.

Fun Fact
Gateway Gifted Resources has been providing educational materials for over a decade, helping countless students excel in gifted and talented programs.

Category: Education Administration
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6. Street Data: A Next-Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation

Author: Shane Safir
4.7 out of 5 stars (505 ratings)

Street Data: A Next-Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation

“Street Data” is a revolutionary book that shifts the focus from traditional data to the qualitative insights that can drive real change in education. Shane Safir’s approach is especially relevant for administrators committed to equity and transformation.

Why We Choose It
Safir’s emphasis on equity and transformation in education is both timely and necessary. The book provides a new framework for understanding and improving schools.

Fun Fact
Shane Safir has been a pioneer in educational equity and was the founding principal of a school that serves predominantly underserved students.

Category: Education Administration
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5. Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions

Author: Jeffrey Selingo
4.6 out of 5 stars (1,238 ratings)

Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions

This book takes a deep dive into the college admissions process, providing administrators with a behind-the-scenes look at what really happens. Jeffrey Selingo’s work is a must-read for anyone involved in education administration at the high school level.

Why We Choose It
Selingo’s investigative approach reveals the complexities of college admissions, offering invaluable insights for school leaders preparing their students for higher education.

Fun Fact
Jeffrey Selingo is a former editor of The Chronicle of Higher Education and has been writing about college admissions for over two decades.

Category: Education Administration
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4. School Leader Internship

Author: Gary E. Martin
4.7 out of 5 stars (134 ratings)

School Leader Internship

“School Leader Internship” is a practical guide designed for aspiring school leaders. Gary E. Martin provides a detailed roadmap for those seeking to transition into leadership roles in education.

Why We Choose It
The book’s hands-on approach makes it a valuable resource for those new to school leadership. The real-world examples and case studies are particularly useful.

Fun Fact
Gary E. Martin has over 30 years of experience in education, including serving as a superintendent and university professor.

Category: Education Administration
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3. Breakthrough Principals: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Stronger Schools

Author: Jean Desravines
4.7 out of 5 stars (821 ratings)

Breakthrough Principals: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Stronger Schools

Jean Desravines offers a blueprint for school transformation in “Breakthrough Principals.” This book is essential for administrators who are committed to making a lasting impact on their schools.

Why We Choose It
The step-by-step guide provided by Desravines is practical and proven, making it a top choice for school leaders looking to create significant change.

Fun Fact

Jean Desravines is the CEO of New Leaders, an organization dedicated to developing school leaders across the United States.

Category: Education Administration
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2. Leverage Leadership 2.0: A Practical Guide to Building Exceptional Schools

Author: Paul Bambrick-Santoyo
4.7 out of 5 stars (1,155 ratings)

Leverage Leadership 2.0: A Practical Guide to Building Exceptional Schools

In “Leverage Leadership 2.0,” Paul Bambrick-Santoyo provides a comprehensive guide to effective school leadership. The book is packed with strategies that can be implemented immediately to improve school performance.

Why We Choose It
Bambrick-Santoyo’s practical advice and focus on data-driven decision-making make this book an essential read for school administrators.

Fun Fact
The first edition of “Leverage Leadership” has been used in leadership training programs across the country.

Category: Education Administration
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1. Leadership: Theory and Practice

Author: Peter G. Northouse
4.5 out of 5 stars (1,153 ratings)

Leadership: Theory and Practice

“Leadership: Theory and Practice” by Peter G. Northouse is the gold standard in leadership literature. It’s a comprehensive guide that covers every aspect of leadership theory, making it a must-have for education administrators.

Why We Choose It
Northouse’s ability to bridge theory and practice is what makes this book stand out. It’s an essential resource for anyone looking to understand and apply leadership principles in education.

Fun Fact
Peter G. Northouse has authored several books on leadership, and his work is widely used in leadership courses around the world.

Category: Education Administration
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