Secret #11: It's nice when outsiders sing your praises

William Ouchi, Author of "Making Schools Work"

It's always nice when credible outside observers think you're doing things right.

In his book, "Making Schools Work: A Revolutionary Plan to Get Your Children the Education They Need", William Ouchi, Professor of Management at the University of California, Los Angeles, is very complimentary to Edmonton Public Schools.

He admires the extensive programs of choice( including religious faith options) that our school board offers to parents.  He likes our decentralized, school based budgeting system where the majority of the financial decisions that affect students are made by the school Principal, usually in collaboration with his/her staff, and with the advice of parents.  And he loves our consistent focus on student achievement.  Many of these practices have been adapted by U.S. school jurisdictions.

Ouchi's book is definitely worth a read.  If you're an Edmonton Public Library member, you can reserve a copy through EPL's website.