All too often, educators say that the biggest waste of time is meetings. This book attempts to bring about a fundamental shift in how educators think about the meetings they attend. The authors make the case that these gatherings are potentially the most important venue where adult and organizational learning can take place in schools.

Meeting Wise proposes a fundamental shift in how educators think about the meetings we attend. Written by two editors of Data Wise, the book argues that these gatherings are potentially the most important venue where adult and organization learning can take place in schools. This simple, succinct, and practical book shows how meeting planning can become a key strategy in the service of school improvement.

"This concise volume offers an effective and efficient set of tools and routines that we have found highly useful in organizing our work. The agenda template, used in conjunction with Meeting Wise norms, roles, and activities, helps to keep everyone on track and create shared ownership of the meeting's success. Meeting Wise is an invaluable resource for making the best use of our limited time together." -- Tony Bryk, president, The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching

"Effective schools make every minute count--for students and educators. Starting from the premise that meetings matter, this straightforward book is full of practical resources and advice readers can put into practice right away." -- Mary C. Dillman, director of data inquiry, Boston Public Schools

"Meeting Wise has transformed our work by providing the structure to leverage leadership. The protocols, checklists and activities equipped us to target important problems, manage conflicts, and overcome typical dilemmas in running team and faculty meetings. A must read for every school leader!" -- Deirdra Aikens, principal, Newark, Delaware

"The authors show how meetings can become rich opportunities for adult learning. This book will forever change the way I facilitate and participate in meetings." -- Irv Richardson, coordinator for public education and school support, NEA-New Hampshire

"Meeting Wise tackles the taboo subject of ineffectual meetings. It is perfect for any school wishing to increase student success through teacher collaboration." -- Adam K. Ruggles, educator, Chicago Public Schools

Kathryn Parker Boudett is the director of the Data Wise Project at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Elizabeth A. City is the executive director of the Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) Program and a lecturer on education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.