I have spent 18 years in the field of education, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I started out as a teacher, then I became a professor, then a department chair and finally, I spent 3 years as a dean of education. Of all of these experiences, my time as an educational administrator was the most challenging and rewarding period of my career, thus far.

I must admit, I had a cheat code of sorts. What do I mean? I read some of the most transformative books on education leadership, many of which were recommended to me by colleagues. Thanks, guys! Also, I was also fortunate enough to author a book on school leadership theories, which was a highly rewarding task.

In this article, I would like to share with you, the 8 best books for education administrators.

A Guide to Effective School Leadership Theories

In this iconic book, Matthew Lynch discusses the ten leadership styles that have applications to the field of education. He contends that for a person to be an excellent educational administrator, they need each of these leadership styles in their repertoire, and must be able to use them at the right time. A must read.

Being a Successful Principal: Riding the Wave of Change Without Drowning

A collection of anecdotes, strategies, and tips written by education administrators, for education administrators.

If You Don’t Feed the Teachers They Eat the Students!: Guide to Success for Administrators and Teachers

This book explains how principals have to take the lead in building a healthy school climate, for teachers and students alike.

Motivating & Inspiring Teachers: The Educational Leader’s Guide for Building Staff Morale

A handbook on how educational leaders can motivate and inspire their teachers to be their best, who in turn, will help their students to be their best.

Results Fieldbook: Practical Strategies from Dramatically Improved Schools

A must read for principals looking to turnaround failing schools. By using the strategies in this book, education leaders will see results in no time.

School Leadership That Works: From Research to Results

This book uses research and data to suggest evidence-based practices and strategies for education leaders.

The Schools Our Children Deserve: Moving Beyond Traditional Classrooms and “Tougher Standards”

A case-based look at what’s really going on in today’s classroom, and how we can use data to improve the U.S. education system. The author offers some personal insights into how we can take our schools from good to great.

What They Don’t Tell You in Schools of Education About School Administration

This book endeavors to walk us through the in and outs of being an education administrator, and it certainly delivers.

Did I miss any? If so, comment below.