Direct from the heart of public school reform, James Nehring offers a complete tour of one charter school - walking us through the school's vision of learning, the day-to-day challenges, the many achievements, and the lessons learned. From the unique perspective of school principal and then full-time teacher, Nehring takes us deep into the Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School, providing rare insight into the strategic issues involved in launching a new school. This engaging narrative is certain to add credibility and inspiration to all those who are interested in learning how charter schools operate and how public education might be renewed in the process. The message of this book is at once simple and profound: charter schools work!