New book aids administrators

An College of Education professor's latest book serves as a guide to improving a school from within by providing practical ideas.

Dr. Jack Blendinger's book, "QLM: Quality Leading and Managing," was published in October by Kendall/Hunt Publishing Co.

"QLM: Quality Leading and Managing" is designed to help school administrators lead and manage a school. It deals with accomplishing administrative tasks, communicating effectively, shaping the environment, improving curriculum and instruction, evaluating employee performance, and developing strategic action plans.

In writing the book, Blendinger said he synthesized hundreds of research studies addressing educational leadership, blended in the thinking of Harvard University's Roland Barth and added practical wisdom gained during almost a quarter century as a practicing school administrator.

"Because it is a quick read, the book should prove useful to busy practicing school administrators, as well as teachers preparing for careers in administration," Blendinger said.

This is the fifth book he has written or co-authored since he joined the Mississippi State educational leadership faculty in 1990.