Address the challenges of high-poverty communities with visionary school leadership.


In this essential guide for education leaders who aspire to effect meaningful change in the lives of students from high-poverty communities, Washington B. Collado presents four pillars to support education leaders in (1) creating a shared vision and mission, (2) engaging families and communities, (3) maintaining a focus on equity, and (4) developing systems to support students’ academic and social-emotional development. Together, these four essential elements provide a coherent and systematic approach to educational excellence for all students, particularly those from low-income families.


Refusing to shy away from the challenges within high-poverty schools, Collado combines decades of leadership experience with the latest research on effective interventions for students. Through nine compelling chapters, he presents actionable strategies, key takeaways, and reflection questions for education leaders. Additional features include




vignettes showcasing real students and administrators, illustrating the successful implementation of key strategies;
activities that encourage leaders to apply the chapter lessons to their specific contexts; and
research-based data explicitly detailing the additional obstacles faced by low-income students.


Visionary leaders hold a pivotal role in reshaping schools for students in high-poverty communities. By embracing the four pillars outlined in this book, education leaders can foster equitable and supportive learning environments that address the academic and social-emotional needs of their students so that all students can thrive.