Best Practices from High-Performing High Schools

In their second collaboration, Wilcox and Angelis tell the stories of high school educators who embody best practices in their day-to-day activities—practices that consistently lead to higher student academic achievement across the core subjects for all students. This book shares results of a multi-case study of how some high schools consistently deliver better student performance, including improved four-year graduation rates. These schools have learned how to successfully adapt to the climate of increased (and increasing) accountability.

Best Practices from High-Performing High Schools is for anyone who strives to ensure that all teens graduate from high school and are ready to succeed in college, in their careers, and in life.

Book Features:
Models that teachers and administrators can use to improve their school and their own practice.Depictions of how educators in higher-performing schools strategically target resources and focus their energies on areas of greatest need.A framework of best practices from schools serving large numbers of children from low-income and/or immigrant families.
Kristen C. Wilcox is a visiting assistant professor at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Janet I. Angelisis associate director of the Albany Institute for Research in Education (AIRE), University at Albany, State University of New York. They are coauthors of Best Practices from High-Performing Middle Schools: How Successful Schools Remove Obstacles and Create Pathways to Learning.

“Wilcox and Angelis have done it again! Drawing on findings from comparative research, they clearly explain why some high schools do better than others and offer specific examples of best practices in action. Perhaps most importantly, they offer readers opportunities to reflect on practices in their own schools and consider what kinds of changes can make the most difference. Best Practices from High-Performing High Schools is a must-read for every high school educator.”
—Jim Butterworth, executive director, Capital Area School Development Association and former assistant commissioner, New York State Education Department

“Best Practices from High-Performing High Schools gets at the heart of what makes some high schools effective for all students. It addresses issues that are critical to providing a climate and culture that challenge students and help them to excel. Wilcox and Angelis clearly describe five essential elements of effective practice and illustrate these with examples from high schools that are consistently successful. A valuable and useful tool for high school educators everywhere.”
—Arthur N. Applebee, Distinguished Professor & Chair, Department of Educational Theory & Practice, University at Albany, SUNY