Increasingly the education world is recognizing that the development of learning communities is an effective means for improving schools without increasing the budget or adding new programs. This indispensable volume offers practical advice gathered from 22 schools (elementary, middle, and high schools) that have successfully modeled or are creating professional learning communities. The right book at the right time, this authoritative volume: Clearly defines the professional learning community—what it looks like and how it operates. Identifies the benefits that accrue to staff and students. Outlines the strategies required to launch, develop, and sustain a community of professional learners that will promote student learning. Examines the construction of learning communities, including the roles and perspectives of teachers, students, principals, superintendents, and community participants. Focuses on the important part the principal plays in spurring change by building trust with teachers and other staff.