Growing our own Principals!
We need great principals in our schools. In the state of Illinois, according to Dr. Jason Leahy, Executive Director of the Illinois Principal’s Association (IPA) “we are in a crisis
Books by James E. Fitzpatrick
Practical Leadership. Lived Experience. Purposeful Reflection.
James Fitzpatrick’s books explore educational leadership from two essential perspectives: the practical realities of leading schools and the deeper values that sustain leaders over time. Together, these works offer a complete view of leadership shaped by experience and integrity.
About the Author
Meet Dr. James Fitzpatrick
Dr. James Fitzpatrick (Jim) is an Assistant Professor at National Louis University (NLU) in Chicago, Illinois. He has been with NLU since 2014. In his role in the Educational Leadership Department he works with aspiring principals, superintendents, central office directors and higher education candidates.
Jim attended St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa, from 1971-75 earning his Bachelor of Arts Degree in History. Like in high school, he competed on the St. Ambrose cross-country and track teams. It was there that he met his future wife, Therese, who is also a graduate of St. Ambrose University and a Professional Educator of World Languages.
Jim began his teaching career in the fall of 1975 at Newman Catholic High School in Mason City, Iowa. He was there from 1975-1980. During that time, he taught Social Studies and his cross-country teams were a state power, winning the State championship in the fall of 1979. He coached several Drake relay qualifiers and track champions during those years.
Beyond Theories & Degrees
The Alley Smarts of Educational Leadership
Beyond Theories & Degrees is a practical leadership book written for educators who feel called to lead but question whether they are “qualified enough” to take the next step. Drawing from decades of experience as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and professor, James Fitzpatrick challenges the myth that leadership belongs only to scholars or those with perfect résumés.
Leadership Beyond Credentials
Great leaders are shaped by experience, reflection, and character, not just degrees. This book reframes leadership as something earned through practice and purpose.
Confidence Through Practice
Fitzpatrick affirms self-belief in aspiring leaders by showing how everyday decisions, relationships, and consistency build true leadership capacity.
A Guide for Schools and Districts
Ideal for principals, superintendents, and leadership teams, this book also works well for collaborative book studies and board induction.
About the Book
The Intersection of Faith and School Leadership
The Intersection of Faith and School Leadership is a reflective memoir that examines how belief, values, and lived experience quietly shape leadership. Drawing from decades as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and professor, James Fitzpatrick shares the moments that tested his judgment and defined his approach to leading schools with integrity.
Faith as a Compass
Leadership decisions often carry moral weight. This book explores how faith provides clarity, perspective, and resilience when choices are difficult and outcomes are uncertain.
Leadership Built on Integrity
Effective leadership is grounded in trust, humility, and consistency. Fitzpatrick reflects on how character, not position, ultimately shapes influence.
Lessons That Last
From classrooms to boardrooms, the experiences shared in this book offer insight for leaders at any stage, reminding readers that growth continues long after titles change.
What Readers Are Saying
Educators, leaders, and readers from different walks of life have connected deeply with The Intersection of Faith and School Leadership.
Fitz’s Blog
Do we provide great Mentors for our Youth to become eventual School Leaders?
How many of us can look back to our most impressionable days and reflect upon the impact our mentors had on us? What was it that these mentors saw in
Building your knowledge base when you begin a Principalship or Superintendency
Along with the excitement in being appointed as a Principal or Superintendent, there also comes with it some anxiety and fear of the unknown. In Beyond Theories and Degrees: The Alley
Have Questions?
Reach Out Anytime
Thoughtful leadership begins with conversation. Whether you’re a reader, educator, administrator, or student of leadership, your questions and reflections are welcome. Use the form to connect, share feedback, or inquire about speaking, consulting, or the books.
jfitzpatrick5@nl.edu
Phone
920-763-6808
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