ABSTRACT
We talk constantly about improving our educational system. We have tried multiple initiatives, some state mandated and some voluntary. However, very few of those changes have truly improved our educational systems and improved student achievement. Millions of dollars have been allocated to school districts across the country for the purpose of closing achievement gaps (e.g., stimulus funding, Race to the Top funding, Elementary and Secondary Education Act funding), yet very minimal changes in student achievement have been documented to show undeniable success. We must do something differently or we will continue to see the same results we have always gotten. What will truly make a difference? As educational leaders, we struggle to try to manage change in our districts, balancing state initiatives and district and school priorities. Where should the priorities be, and how will we truly change educational practice so that we actually do have documented improvement by closing achievement gaps? We have to have the courage to take risks that we believe will truly make a difference.
