Why are some schools more successful at implementing new ideas, projects, or programs than others? While there are many factors responsible for successful schools, I've noticed that the critical ingredient for success is always leadership. By leadership, I mean the quality of someone who visibly champions and diffuses the innovation schoolwide or districtwide.

I've learned that the leader often is a teacher, a student, or someone else respected by others

At the districts and schools where I work, the meaningful and effective use of technology is usually the result of this leader's ability tocommunicate and share a common vision provide timely technical support provide relevant professional development comprehend and interpret standards assess programs.