Leverage Leadership: A Practical Guide to Building Exceptional Schools

Introduction

Julie Jackson knows the obstacles she faces. As principal of North Star Elementary School, Julie works in Vailsburg, one of the many neighborhoods in Newark, New Jersey, that struggle economically and educationally. Most of Julie's students qualify for a free or reduced lunch and are Black or Latino. On the first day of school, only one of Julie's 80 kindergarten students can read; most know only a few letters of the alphabet.

But in a place where most people see challenges, Julie Jackson sees opportunity and promise. After one year at North Star, Julie's students no longer lag behind; they have caught up to—and surpassed—their peers. Incredibly, during their five years at the elementary school, Julie's students collectively score ...