In this inspiring book, Thomas J. Sergiovanni examines why the "lifeworld" of schools is so vital to school success and shows how local leadership can make the difference in creating healthy, rigorous schools for our children. He proposes initiatives that invite all educational stakeholders to lead without compromising the legitimate interests of their school and communities.

"Leaders who are trying to act according to the unique culture, values, and needs of their schools while also meeting state and national standards will find this inspiring book a welcome addition to their professional libraries."
-The School Administrator

"Sergiovanni gets to the heart of school reform and renewal in this book. He shows how local school communities can construct standards that support serious learning and effective caring for students. This is a must read for anyone involved in education policy or practice today."
-Linda Darling-Hammond, professor of education, Stanford University, and codirector, National Center for Restructuring Education, Schools, and Teaching (NCREST), Teachers College, Columbia University

"Sergiovanni's book gives life and meaning to the words 'lifeworld' and 'systemsworld'-bringing a new and insightful perspective to the discourse on school reform-and challenges school leaders to gain a more holistic view of students and interaction in the teaching-learning process."
-Gerald N. Tirozzi, executive director, The National Association of Secondary School Principals