Quotes:  

This is an important subject because educators historically have done a poor job with sharing the wisdom of the practitioners.  This creative way of passing along lessons learned is needed.

Dr. Lawrence W. Lezotte
Educational Consultant, Effective Schools

Rarely does someone who has “been there, and done that” as a leader in a field take the time to organize and share their accumulated wisdom in such a system fashion as Bob Reeves has done. While written as a series of conversations over 12 months by a new Superintendent, each page is chock full of the tacit knowledge and tips that are the result of the school of hard knocks.

Stephen Haines
CEO and Founder, Haines Center International

Dr. Reeves brings a refreshing story that should be mandatory reading for all superintendents, new and old.  In a time where school superintendents turn over every couple of years, it’s time to listen to someone that over twenty-five years built a small urban, suburban, and rural district into one of the truly great ones.

William Tudor
CEO of Parent Tutor Corporation and Founder of EdVISION Corporation

I have been reading your book and find it very impressive.  There’s a tremendous amount of wisdom and good advice in it.  I hope it is used by many rookies and journeymen too.

Dr. Donald Haught,
Retired CEO, Western Association of Schools and Colleges, California

Starting off on the right foot is essential to being a successful new superintendent.  In this book Dr. Reeves provided the foundation for me to create an excellent relationship with my board.  As a mentor he gave me the confidence that I was on the right track and kept me from making unnecessary mistakes.  It is full of good advice.

Dr. John Keiter, Superintendent
  Summerville Union High School District , Tuolumne , CA

Excellent read for superintendents, administrators and more importantly for teacher leaders hungry to learn more about and understand the interface between the organization and themselves.  All administrators in training should be exposed to the strategies and skills Dr. Reeves’ shares with the reader.  Each chapter contains great suggestions for survival.  The advice about the secrets of working effectively with a school board are especially timely.

Ronarae Adams, Assistant Professor
National University , San Diego , CA

Bob’s passion for improved student outcomes drives all conversations of school issues toward a core value of what will be best for student learning.  That passion for “all students learning ~ whatever it takes” merges with his gift for strategic thinking and planning, making him a valuable resource for leaders.  This book is excellent reading for the new as well as the seasoned school leader.

Dr. Stephen Halfaker, Superintendent
Lakeside Union School District , Lakeside , CA

When I became superintendent in Julian, following 20+ years with the Poway Unified School District , the Julian District was in disarray.  I took the values of PUSD, student centered, high expectations (both staff and student), and the knowledge to recognize and assess leadership styles to change that district for the better in many ways.

Charlie Garten
Retired School Administrator and Technology Consultant

Dr. Bob Reeves is a dynamic, exciting speaker.  He develops leadership with real life experiences as a former school superintendent. This book is a must for organizations needing leadership in a fast-paced changing society.

Dr. Edward Brand, Superintendent
San Marcos Unified School District, San Marcos , CA