Taking Flight to Literacy and Leadership provides a powerful model of "what works" in schools. It shows superintendents, principals, and teachers how to integrate best practices in literacy, adult learning, and systems thinking, using concrete examples from authentic practice. Taking Flight to Literacy and Leadership creates a razor-sharp focus on instruction and places learning at the center of the effort. It brings people together to share what they know and learn collaboratively and provides tools for staff to develop new solutions to difficult problems. This book is a guide for: · Superintendents who want to grow their districts into a healthy vibrant learning organization. · Principals who seek to engage staff in dynamic, job-embedded learning about instruction. · Teachers who hope to influence both classroom and district learning.

"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