The Magical Place We Call School: Creating a Safe Space for Learning and Happiness in a Challenging World

by Dr. Kathleen Corley, Glenn Plaskin (Primary Contributor)

There is no shortage of challenges in schools today—from bullying to gun violence and beyond—yet The Magical Place We Call School reminds us of the extraordinary things that still happen in classrooms all across America and that school truly can be a safe and happy place for learning.

At a time when public discourse rages on about what students should or should not be taught, when books are being banned, when school shootings fill the news, and when families are still reeling from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic—here comes The Magical Place We Call School . With its fresh focus on the power and perils of education, it’s an intentional way of thinking that will intrigue readers everywhere.

In her literary debut, school principal Dr. Kathleen Corley, a forty-year veteran in elementary education, writes knowingly and with unique humor and insight about the value of education, how kids think and learn, what they need to succeed in and out of school, and how their home life affects their performance. Plus, she tackles some of the most daunting societal issues impacting children today, from bullying to gun violence and beyond.

Dr. Corley reminds us that something extraordinary still occurs in classrooms across America—not just miraculously, but by design and with tenacity.

In The Magical Place We Call School, Corley shares human interest stories that shed light on what is and isn’t working and provides a calm hand and a much-needed perspective from the front lines of learning. Her deep caring for the children, educators, and parents in her midst shines through, providing a true sense of what she calls “the magic of schools.” It’s a book not to be missed.

Genres: Nonfiction

256 pages, Hardcover

Published January 16, 2024

Reviews

[Kate Chiafolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not a teacher but I have four children in public school so I have a vested interest in schools and teachers. This book gave me an inside look into what teachers and school administration does to help provide a safe, meaningful, warm and growth minded environment for children to learn. I can see that the intentionality put into planning and executing everything in the school pays off dividends in the form of increased student engagement, teacher autonomy, employee retention and overall calm and happy environment. Dr Corley did a wonderful job of keeping me engaged with her wit and clever writing. I see this book as a wonderful tool for any educator or school administrator and as an eye opening guide for parents and community members to use to understand the amazing service that schools provide to the children and families they serve.

[Marymbriggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an inspiring book for all who have children in school, teach children, serve on school boards or who just care about the education of our youth. It is told by a veteran educator who cares about the children entrusted to her care and about the teachers and staff who work with her to creatively meet their needs. You will leave this book with a renewed belief that we CAN make a difference in the lives of today’s children.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: The Magical Place We Call School

by Dr. Kathleen Corley

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉At a time when schools face overwhelming challenges—from book bans to gun violence, from the lingering effects of the pandemic to debates over curriculum—Dr. Kathleen Corley brings us The Magical Place We Call School, a heartfelt and eye-opening exploration of what truly makes schools a place of learning, safety, and joy. With over 40 years of experience in elementary education, Dr. Corley shares personal stories, expert insights, and a much-needed perspective on how to support students, educators, and communities.

👉This book is both a love letter to education and a call to action. Dr. Corley doesn’t shy away from the difficult realities students and teachers face daily, yet she also highlights the resilience, dedication, and magic that happen in classrooms across America. Through real-life stories, she paints a vivid picture of what’s working in education—and what needs to change. From tackling issues like bullying and gun violence to showing the power of motivation, leadership, and community involvement, she brings a balanced, hopeful perspective that is refreshing and inspiring.

👉One of the book’s greatest strengths is its storytelling. Dr. Corley’s firsthand experiences add depth and warmth, making each chapter feel personal and relatable. Whether she’s sharing the struggles of a student overcoming challenges or celebrating the incredible dedication of teachers, her words resonate deeply. She reminds us that education isn’t just about academics—it’s about shaping lives, building confidence, and ensuring every child feels seen and supported.

👉Beyond inspiration, this book offers practical insights for educators, parents, and anyone invested in the future of schools. It’s a reminder that while the education system has its flaws, real change is possible when teachers are empowered, administrators are compassionate, and communities come together to support students.

👉If you care about the future of education, The Magical Place We Call School is a must-read!

Happy reading 😁😁

#BookReview

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

At a time when being an educator is fraught with more concerning issues than this teacher can remember, The Magical Place We Called School is a welcome and reassuring reminder that, with the right leadership and the right team of people, schools can still be the safe, encouraging, and transformative places we need them to be. Throughout the book, Corley shares anecdotes and examples that illustrate what a school can be, particularly when it is staffed with creative and inspired teachers and staff members who are supported and even cheered on by a thoughtful administrator. Corley’s style of writing is conversational and peppered with humor, yet still includes references to sources and research that underpin and reinforce her recommendations and stances. This book is a great reminder that the last thirty years in education have been far from trouble-free, yet great schools have existed and continue to do so. Whatever challenges the coming years have in store, this book provides a promise that -- with a team of passionate teachers, support staff, and other partners-- a school with an equally passionate, creative, and visionary leader at the helm can still create magic for the students lucky enough to come through its doors.

[Kimberly A · Rating 5 out of 5]

After so much negativity for our public schools, it is absolutely wonderful to read about the great things that are going on in many schools across America. This positivity needs to be shared with all!! Through Dr. Kathy Corley's humor and wit this book is engaging and enjoyable to read. Every teacher that is thinking of leaving the profession should read this book to help remind themselves of what a difference each of them can make with great advice of how to get through the tough times as Dr. Corley has helped so many do. Then pass it on to the next teacher, administrator or parent for them to read.

[Bella · Rating 2 out of 5]

Corley is clearly a gifted educator, and I do not doubt that she's made an incredible impact on the schools, staff, and students lucky to have been under her leadership.

That said, I struggled with this, as I do with many education-themed books, because it never asks if school (that is, schooling) itself may be a problem. I believe school is a magical place, and I so desperately want a book to engage, critically, with our relationship with and memories of school. This was not that, relying instead on cherry-picked anecdotes and a stubborn, saviour-like belief that teachers = angels. A case, perhaps, of misplaced expectations!

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this only confirms, my children were given a phenomenal elementary education. We were fortunate enough to live in a nearby neighborhood before RCE even was built, what are the odds!? Knowing more of Dr.Corley's background by reading this book, and thinking often of Malcolm Gladwells book the Outliers and the chapter of 10,000 hours shows why RCE is the school it is. It was an honor and privilege to read this book and truly understand how fortunate my children were in attending this school.

[Justin Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Magical Place We Call School, Dr. Corley masterfully blends her unique storytelling with solid and tested advice that will challenge and inspire teachers, administrators, parents, and district leaders.

While reading this book, you’ll find it is evident that Dr. Corley has devoted her life to improving public education for all students. She has created a school culture that lets teachers know they are supported/valued, parents know that they are teammates, and students know they are capable and belong.

[Kristenhowell625 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Corley’s book gives an in depth look at what it takes to be involved in education today. She tells it like it is while stressing the importance of making school a safe, supportive, and magical place for students. It is obvious that she goes above and beyond and does “whatever it takes” for the students, their families, and the staff in her building. This book is a must read for school leadership, teachers, and parents alike who want to understand what it takes to make a great school.

[Alex Bean · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Magical Place We Call School offers interesting insights into how motivation, some determination, and leadership know-how can change our schools. Through her experiences and humor, Corley casts a light upon the challenges that are at the forefront of educational discourse. She uses her decades of experience to show what modern schools should look like, and do look like when teachers are supported, administrators act as troubleshooters first, and communities are brought into the fold.

[Stephanie Moldenhauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Magical Place We Call School touches on some important topics in the education world. Throughout the book, Dr. Corley shares many stories of experiences that describe how to build and maintain a magical school climate and culture. It is evident that she has a clear vision for supporting children, educators, and parents, and we are lucky to get a glimpse of that through this book. Every educator and administrator can take something away from this book to help bring magic to their classroom and school.

[JM Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an Advance Reading Copy of The Magical Place We Call School and felt much relieved about American public education. School is the center of our children's lives and we can only hope every elementary school principal is as wise and child-centered as author Kathleen Corley. This book would be an excellent gift for Teacher Appreciation Week and a great book club pick, too.

[BookTrib.com]

Unpack a lifetime of lessons in THE MAGICAL PLACE WE CALL SCHOOL by #awardwinning educator, Dr. Kathleen Corley! This #book is perfect parents, educators, future #educators or anyone concerned with the state of #education in our schools.

Read the full review on BookTrib.com

[Laura Filson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dr. Corley's book! Having spent over 35 years in a public school - the same one for my entire career - I KNOW that schools can be magical! The stories Dr. Corley shared touched my heart and reminded me that schools share many similarities, but it's a school's soul that sets it apart! Anyone who has fallen in love with education will fine themselves in this book!

[Kelly Wersler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Corley has mentored many teachers along her journey in education. Her words of wisdom are written throughout this wonderful book. The stories are captured in a way that honors all those that work so hard to make education a magical place for all students!

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a good read. There was some points , toward the end, that I thought “Tell us how you really feel!” But for the most part I found it inspiring and I will take some of it with me into the new school year.

[Katie Conte · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read. So much to take away that inspire actions to best support our students, families, school facility & staff, and community.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

All educators need to read this book. Even parents should read this book to know the importance of a schools culture. It’s a quick captivating read. I read it in 2 days. I attended a school Dr. Corley was principal of for Kindergarten. Back then, the school had a “100 book reading challenge” to encourage students to read. We got different prizes along the way. That challenge instilled a love of reading in me that brought me to reading THIS book 23ish years later.

Fast forward to now, my child attends Red Cedar. Reading this book has given me insight into each tradition that Red Cedar hosts that I love. As an educator, many of the things I value, I have learned Dr. Corley also values. Great book!

[Jill Moldenhauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Corley is a gifted (true) story teller. This book offers a lot of insight into the MAGIC of schools and their staff. I highly recommend every past, present and soon to be educator read this book. There are lots of laugh out loud moments, head shaking in agreement moments and heart string pulling moments. And parents if you really want some insight as to the goings on in schools you should read this book too.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read for both educators and parents!