Peter DeWitt is the founder and CEO of the Instructional Leadership Collective. A former public school teacher and principal, he now facilitates professional learning in the United States and abroad based on the content of many of his best-selling educational books. Former superintendent Michael Nelson is a frequent contributor to this opinion blog. He is the co-leader of ILC and a former superintendent who has been an educator for more than 40 years.
School & District Management
Opinion
4 Practical Steps Leaders Can Take to Support Student Learning
When it comes to best practice for data-driven instruction, teachers will take clues from leaders.
School & District Management
Opinion
11 Critical Issues Facing Educators in 2026
We asked nearly 1,000 education leaders about their biggest problems. These major themes stood out.
Professional Development
Opinion
School Leaders Struggle With Teacher Buy-in. What to Do About That
Research shows that four actions can inspire change, writes Thomas R. Guskey.
School & District Management
Opinion
The 5‑Minute Clarity Reset: How a Small Pause Can Change a Big Decision
Stuck in a spin? This practice can help free an education leader to act.
Professional Development
Opinion
Calling Yourself a 'Lead Learner' Doesn't Make It So
As an educator, knowing your job well can dull your desire to grow. There's a way to change that.
Professional Development
Opinion
How Education Leaders Can Build a Better Space for Collaborative Learning
School improvement often falls flat, and initiatives are easily abandoned. That can be changed.
Professional Development
Opinion
Looking for a New Way to Approach Professional Learning? Try This
Instructional leadership collectives build cross-system networks for purposeful, impactful learning.
Student Well-Being & Movement
Opinion
First Days of School at Any Age Never Lose Their Power
At 62, I started graduate school the same day my grandson began kindergarten, proof that curiosity and growth never retire.
Professional Development
Opinion
We Asked 100 Leaders for Their Top Challenges. Here's What We Learned
There are 10 major patterns to the problems in their schools.
School & District Management
Opinion
What I Learned About School Leadership at My Italian Nonna's Table
This principal's annual barbecue became a blueprint for building culture, community, and collective learning.
Professional Development
Opinion
How Communities of Practice Can Drive School Improvement
Professional learning often feels like an event. Here's how to make it impactful and collaborative.
School & District Management
Opinion
The Stunning Resignation of UVA President Jim Ryan—and Why It Matters
The university president’s departure is more than just a headline. It’s a lesson in leadership.
School & District Management
Opinion
Data Can Be Intimidating to Educators. But It Doesn't Have to Be
An unexpected insight from a child offers teacher and leadership teams a way to appreciate a more nuanced use of evidence.
School & District Management
Opinion
What Principals Can Learn From Pope Leo XIV's Leadership Approach
Education leaders are under pressure to bring about positive results. Here are effective ways to go about it.