Product Review

In an era when profound changes and endless demands have left many educators reeling, some schools and districts are creating settings where staff and students thrive and meaningful learning takes place every day. How do they do it? What characterizes these dynamic organizations and the people within them?

In this book, Steven J. Gross examines 10 exemplary curriculum development sites, ranging from those that follow detailed state guidelines to those with few external mandates. From their richly varied experiences, Gross identifies common characteristics that lead to success, as well as some key traits of effective administrators, teachers, and community groups. In addition, he provides specific strategies for dealing with the disruption that nearly always accompanies innovation.

The creativity, energy, and determination found at each of these sites is inspiring and proves that, even in challenging times, educators can lead curriculum efforts that will make a difference for the students and communities they serve.