Acknowledgments About the Author About the Illustrator 1. Creating a Fun, Rewarding School Climate Recognition and Appreciation Fun FUNdraisers In Closing 2. Start of the School Year Before School Starts--Get Ready! Get Set! Go! Ready or Not...Here They Come! Choose a Theme! Welcoming New Staff Members 3. Fabulous Fall: September Through November Pause for Applause Powered by FUN! Fall Celebrations 4. Wondrous Winter: December Through March Pause for Applause Powered by FUN! Winter Celebrations 5. Sensational Spring: April Through May Pause for Applause Powered by FUN! Spring Celebrations 6. End of the School Year: Ahhh Summer! Reflection Pause for Applause Powered by FUN! Index
"True to form, Hodges once again provides administrators with superb ways to support and encourage a wonderful, nurturing culture in our buildings. The beginning of the year is the perfect time to have fun as you welcome staff back and greet new staff members. Though these activities are enjoyable, their underlying purpose is important-one of collaboration, respect, trust, and getting to know one another. The author offers numerous opportunities for faculties of all sizes to interact with one another throughout the year. For new and experienced administrators, this book is a treasure chest of ideas just waiting to be opened!" -Tess W. Blumenthal, Principal Valley Elementary School, Jefferson, MD "Hodges shares very practical and innovative ideas for making 'fun' of the hard work we do! Her ideas will be used with our administrative council to motivate and reward them for what they do, and to model how they can take these ideas back to their own staff. I'll be buying this book for each of them as a back-to-school gift for their professional libraries!"-Julie Germann, Assistant Superintendent Monett R-1 School District, MO Create a fun, inspiring climate that motivates staff members the year 'round! In this exciting new resource Diane Hodges, best-selling author of Looking Forward to Monday Morning and Looking Forward to MORE Monday Mornings, offers a wealth of ideas, strategies, and tips for creating a positive, rewarding, and fun school climate. Based on research findings that identify educator needs along with a collection of ideas from educators throughout the U.S. and Canada, the book provides positive, spirited approaches to help principals and school administrators create a nurturing culture where staff members are encouraged and appreciated for all that they do. Organized around the seasons, this reader-friendly guide includes: Preparation plans for the new school year Fun campus and community events that prompt everyone to get involved Seasonal activities, songs, and tips for celebrating special holidays and occasions End-of-the-year reflections and rewards Unique original artwork by John Speeter that highlights important ideas and concepts Spark staff members' enthusiasm and boost campus morale every day by incorporating proven techniques that will revitalize the spirit of your entire school community!
Diane Hodges is the managing partner of Threshold Group, an educational consulting firm in San Diego. After 30+ years as an educator, she is sharing her insights through books and international speaking events. Her wit and humor have delighted audiences and readers everywhere. She has served as an executive director of career and technical education, director of instructional services, director of human resources, secondary principal, counselor, and instructor. She earned her doctorate from Michigan State University, has received twelve national and state awards, and is a best-selling author of eight books.