Productive Conflict

Strong schools are built on healthy working relationships.

Drawing on research and real school experience, author Amanda Dunn helps educators understand conflict as a natural part of collaborative work. She offers a practical approach for addressing tension with clarity and intention so teams can work more effectively, strengthen trust, and keep student learning at the center of their efforts.

K 12 principals, administrators, and teachers can use this book to:

• Enhance conflict resolution skills to manage interpersonal conflicts in education
• Develop a stronger understanding of the different kinds of conflict in K 12 education
• Implement practical strategies that promote positive school cultures and collaboration
• Create tailored conflict management plans to address specific needs within their schools
• Foster staff autonomy, competence, and belonging to enhance job satisfaction and motivation

Introduction

Contents:

Chapter 1: Whose Job Is It? Gaining Clarity About Roles and Responsibilities Within Your Organization

Chapter 2: What Is Happening? Common Conflict Categories in Schools

Chapter 3: How Are We Responding? Common Approaches to Conflicts

Chapter 4: What Are the Effects? Avoiding Conflict Spirals

Chapter 5: How Can We Keep Conflict Productive? Improving the Conditions for Increased Job Satisfaction and Motivation

Chapter 6: What Can We Be Proactive About? Implementing Structures for Success

Chapter 7: What Is the Plan? Creating a Comprehensive Conflict Management Plan

Epilogue

References and Resources

Index