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: (1) An interactive writing style that "coaches" educators; (2) Powerful "what to do" and "how to do it" tools; (3) Case illustrations and success stories; (4) Protocols for leading collaborative inquiry; (5) Journal reflections; and (6) 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. [Foreword by Grant Wiggins.].