This self-directed book review study program for significantly increasing student achievement is presented in a manual/study guide format. It is intended to enable school leaders (principals, assistant principals, teachers, students, and other stakeholders) to rethink and discover the Natural Forces that impact individual and overall school performance.

The format encourages study/action groups (leadership teams, building level teams, and school improvement groups) to read, study, reflect, learn, and take action together. Natural Forces acts as a catalyst promoting dialogue among group members. It is especially powerful when used with leadership teams/school improvement teams intent on significantly increasing student achievement and school performance.

Study group participants are encouraged to contrast reality at the school and their vision of what is possible as presented in reflection. A consensus on actions that directly impact student achievement are implemented.

Step One
Distribute to each team member a copy of Natural Forces and support materials.

Step Two
Establish a book study group meeting schedule (including dates, times, and meeting places).

Step Three
Ask team members to read the assigned chapter's prior to each meeting.

Step Four
Using the techniques of dialogue, ask each team member to reflect on these three points:

• How do these ideas relate to our school?
• Contrast actions we are currently taking with the positive actions we could take using the ideas presented.
• If we implemented the ideas today, what actions would we take today?

Step Five
Build consensus on actions needed and implement.

Note:
This book review study program has proven to be extremely helpful when used to generate needs, strategies, and outcomes for school improvement efforts.

Note: To purchase the materials needed to implement this program go to "Online Store" click "School Reform Model".