Setting the bar high -- for ourselves.

Dear Colleague:

We often speak about "setting the bar high" for our students. But after reading this issue of Leadership magazine, which focuses on preparing students to meet high expectations, you will realize how high we have set the bar for ourselves.

A common thread running through these articles is the belief that while school leaders are proud of the work we have done for our students, we know there is still much more to be done. We are committed to continuing that hard work, even when it means that we must remain learners, alongside our students.

In fact, George Manthey (page 17) believes it should be the adults at our schools who learn the most. He asks, "Do you believe there is someone with the ability to lead your school or district better than you are? If so, what do you need to learn so that `someone else' is you?"

In addition to being lifelong learners and hard workers, the authors who have contributed to this issue are an optimistic group. In his article on page 28, Glen Thomas writes, "In many ways these are wonderful times for education -- with opportunities as never before, and possibilities to make the kind of progress that heretofore we have been unable to accomplish."

I think that we all share his sense of the incredible possibilities for achievement our leadership can provide. At ACSA, we consider ourselves your partners in the quest for improved student achievement. Through our publications, professional development programs, influence over statewide education policy issues and our other services, we are here to support you. If you are not yet a member of ACSA, please call us at [phone] to discover what you've been missing!

Sincerely,

Lillie Campbell President