The authors provide a reasoned approach to improving literacy systemwide. Their focus on leadership and the ways in which schools can radically improve student performance is thoughtful. Implementing their suggestions will result in better schools for students and happier places for teachers to work. -- Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey, assistant professors, School of Teacher Education, San Diego State University I know the theories. I have read all the cutting-edge research. Until now, there has been no text that integrates them all into a coherent approach to education. Taking Flight to Literacy and Leadership does that by telling the story of a district's authentic work. I now have a much better understanding of how systems work and how they build capacity. This is a beautiful book. -- Marcia Logie, assistant superintendent of teaching and learning, Kent Intermediate School District How boring a flight would be if only the copilots talked; this book is about what happens when you engage all of those on the trip in its details. In this practical book, Brayman, Grey, and Stearns share their lessons during a districtwide, multiyear, literacy improvement effort that resulted in high student achievement. Under one cover, you'll discover the power of a teacher's voice, the importance of focus, and that the key to learning for kids is the learning done by adults. This book will easily become a valuable resource in your school improvement efforts! -- Deborah Wahlstrom, owner, Successline, Inc. I want everyone to read this compelling, always inspiring, sometimes entrancing story of what's possible in schools today. I felt exhilarated, confirmed, excited, and happy-the sky is truly the limit when we learn how to work together for what we most care about. -- Margaret J. Wheatley, author of Leadership and the New Science and other books Co-authors Jacqueline J. Brayman, Maureen A. Grey and former superintendent Michael A. Stearns describe the keys to the success of their work in the Northview (Mich.) Public Schools, in partnership with the Ball Foundation, to implement a data-driven, multiyear, districtwide literacy improvement effort. The book outlines best practices in three main areas - literacy, adult learning and systems thinking - through which NPS increased student achievement, developed a sense of shared leadership among staff members, and was transformed into a full-scale "learning organization." District Administration 20110602
