What do the principals of Frazier International Magnet School in Chicago, Illinois, the SEED School of Washington, D.C., and George Hall Elementary in Mobile, Alabama, have in common? They know the secrets of creating a high-performing school culture. These schools are the successful exceptions-schools that have succeeded when others with similar challenges consistently struggle. In this inspiring book, Cathy Lassiter shares three secrets based on research from a variety of fields-secrets that can transform a school's culture from low performing to high performing. Added to those secrets are three simple truths that every school leader knows, but few implement consistently. The simple truths of successful leadership in challenging schools are powerful practices that impact students learning on a daily basis. Leaders who know and act upon these truths improve their schools in even the most difficult environments. They understand that school culture must change for the good of the students, to meet the ever-increasing accountability demands, or even to keep open the school's doors. The Leadership and Learning Center provides world-class professional development services, cutting-edge research, and innovative solutions for educators and school leaders who serve students from pre-kindergarten through college. The Center has worked in all fifty states and every Canadian province, as well as Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the Middle East. The Center works with public school systems, as well as religious and secular independent schools, charter schools, community colleges, technical schools, universities, state departments of education, national ministries of education, and international education associations. Center Professional Development Associates are experienced superintendents, principals, administrators, and educators who provide comprehensive practices for clients in the areas of standards, assessment, instruction, accountability, data analysis, and leadership. The Leadership and Learning Center® This book provides practical, easy-to-implement strategies while exploring these concepts: Secrets How can the powerful effect of intrinsic motivation influence the work of principals and teachers? What are the vital behaviors of high-performing schools and how can they be implemented? How are cooperation and collaboration skills implemented in the school culture, from the board-room to the classroom? Simple Truths Maximize the impact of effective teachers and develop talent. Create a culture of leadership throughout the organization to reap the rewards of a high-performing school culture. Use data and shared accountability for continuous improvement in the school as well as success in meeting external accountability policies. Book jacket.