Michael Fisher, a Professional Development Specialist at Orleans/Niagara BOCES and Dr. Steven Weber, a dedicated educator and school administrator in Arkansas have collaborated on a new book “Contemporary Curriculum Leadership: Illustrated Handbook”. The book’s foundation is built upon the authors’ combined four decades of curriculum experience and their extensive writing on curriculum design, technology and contemporary learning.
The authors describe the book as an action guide and handbook designed to help launch conversations and facilitate the implementation of curriculum plans that promote contemporary learning. Mr. Fisher and Dr. Weber say they intend for this book to help curriculum and instructional leaders bring clarity and focus to the many decisions involved in planning and implementing instructional practices. “It integrates insights from years of work in curriculum design, school leadership, modern learning, and student experiences to offer something new for future-ready learners,” says Fisher. “We see the book as invitation to educators to assess their existing practices and apply its ideas to grow their practices, develop their organizations, and foster success throughout the entire educational system.”
Curriculum development is crucial in education. It provides a structured framework for learning, ensuring students acquire relevant knowledge and skills as it shapes their development and guides teachers as they help students to be successful in their educational journeys and beyond. The authors made certain that the colorful and whimsical illustrated book is strongly aligned with the Professional Standards for Educational Leadership (PSEL) and incorporates a deep understanding of the needs of Generation Alpha (Children born between 2010 and 2024). “Dr. Weber and I wanted to prioritize important considerations and promote conversations and opportunities, with a focus on empowering both teachers and leaders to do their best work for students, impacting instructional and assessment practices, and fostering a sense of belonging for contemporary learners,” says Fisher.
Michael Fisher, through the Orleans/Niagara BOCES’ Center for School Improvement and Professional Development, will be hosting a curriculum leadership event on October 7th at Orleans/Niagara BOCES’ Conference Center in Sanborn. It will be open to all educators in Orleans and Niagara Counties and focused on he and Dr. Weber’s book “Contemporary Curriculum Leadership: Illustrated Handbook”. For more information you can go to the Center for School Improvement and Professional Development website at https://sites.google.com/onboces.org/csipd/offerings.
Mr. Fisher is a former teacher who is now a fulltime author, consultant and instructional coach who works with schools locally and nationwide, helping to sustain curriculum upgrades, design contemporary curricula and modernize instruction with immersive technology.