Have you ever imagined yourself as a teacher leader but weren't quite sure whether you really had--or could develop--necessary skills? Have you wondered what the first steps toward becoming a teacher leader are, what approaches work best, and how to overcome the inevitable challenges that come with leading colleagues toward improving as professionals? The authors answer these questions and more in this engaging guide to becoming a successful teacher leader. Organized around five key tools--communication, collaboration, professional development, data, and advocacy--the book covers every aspect of what is involved in taking on leadership responsibilities. Firsthand accounts of the authors' experiences and those of more than a dozen other State Teachers of the Year describe the various pathways to leadership, strategies for success, and pitfalls to avoid, and show how leaders can improve schools and districts and influence state and national policies. Copublished by ASCD and NNSTOY.