Introduction

Leadership is a critical factor in establishing the conditions necessary for successful student learning. In their landmark research review for the Wallace Foundation, Leithwood et al. found that school leadership is highly impactful, second only to classroom instruction, when it comes to student learning outcomes. In a meta-analysis of 28 independent studies focused on transformational leadership, Chin found that transformational school leadership can positively impact school effectiveness, student learning outcomes, and educators’ job satisfaction. The leadership stories in this book emerge from traditional public schools that are engaged in significant reform, public charter schools that have started from scratch, private schools that are offering unique alternatives, and even a couple of school leaders who are building learning models that stretch the definition of school entirely. This introduction also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.