Mary Cay Ricci has hit a homerun with her book, Mindsets in the Classroom. It has been a valuable resource in my work as a professional developer by providing real-world examples and rationale for developing a growth mindset school cultures.  In the chapter “Why Is a Differentiated, Responsive Classroom Important to a Growth Mindset Culture,” Ricci reminds the reader that understanding and believing that intelligence develops is critical when planning for differentiation in the classroom.  The Differentiated/Responsive teaching template is an excellent scaffolding piece for the less experienced teacher when planning differentiated lessons.  The book empowers students, guides parents, and educates teachers in the collaboration and cultivation of a Growth Mindset Culture.  I highly recommend this book with its reader friendly format, research-based approach, and practical applications to maintaining a growth mindset culture at home and in school.  

Linking theory to practice, Mindsets in the Classroom makes accessible to educators and parents alike the importance of student perseverance, effort, and disposition in promoting success in all learners.  Mary Cay Ricci examines how hard work and failure contribute to greater achievement when students, parents and educators understand how the mind makes meaning of new information and how well intentioned language may inhibit success.  The old adage ‘nothing succeeds like success’ is translated into language and practices for use in the home and classroom. These are lessons for both school and life beyond the classroom.  The resulting improved self-concept and love of learning and challenge have life-long benefits. This book guides teachers, administrators and parents in very practical applications for improving the culture of our homes and classrooms and the language we use in support of students. A very hope-filled and strategy-filled resource.