In his 1990 book, The Quality School: Managing Students without Coercion, Dr. Glasser explained how by using the principles of lead management, a school could create a Glasser Quality School. In subsequent writings, mainly Choice Theory: A New Psychology of Personal Freedom and Every Student Can Succeed, he further elaborates on these ideas.
A brief summary of the process to become a Glasser Quality School is described below:
- The Principal’s role is vital in the implementation process. Before any formal training is begun, the Principal raises teacher, student and parent awareness of Choice Theory and Reality Therapy through readings and discussions of Dr. Glasser’s two books, Choice Theory: A New Psychology of Personal Freedom, and Every Student Can Succeed.
- The school community of staff, parents and students make a firm commitment to move to a Glasser Quality School.
- The Principal or School District offers formal training in Choice Theory and Reality Therapy to move more easily from coercive practices to those of lead management so that the learning environment is conducive to quality work. Schools are encouraged to maintain programs such as Cooperative Learning that are consistent with Dr. Glasser’s ideas.
- Students and teachers are taught Choice Theory to reach a common ground in establishing a supportive, caring environment and in building healthy relationships that contribute to school success.
- For any school to become a Glasser Quality School, it is necessary that at least a core group of staff complete the Institute Certification process. A “core” group is defined by each school in consultation with the Institute instructor.
- Staff involves students in quality learning by introducing more need-satisfying classes to help students gain confidence and move through a process of self-evaluation and co-verification of student work.
- For more information on Glasser Quality Schools or to see a full list of current Quality Schools visit the William Glasser Institute-US website at wglasser.com