Instructional leadership begins in the classroom Donald B. Bartalo reveals the experiences of school leaders and teachers who have discovered that meaningful school improvement does not necessarily come from the top—it comes from effective teaching and leaders who support it. Based on eight fundamental tenets, the text features a clear how-to process, success stories, and methods for bridging the teaching gap between the kinds of teaching needed for the 21st century and that which is found in most schools. Special features include: An interactive writing style that "coaches" educators Powerful "what to do" and "how to do it" tools Case illustrations and success stories Protocols for leading collaborative inquiry Journal reflections Leadership team activities This practical guide's step-by-step approach is easy to follow, research-based, and steeped in common sense. Closing the Teaching Gap is the next best thing to having a seasoned coach give you the playbook for becoming a successful instructional leader.