A RIDE project made possible by the Wallace Foundation (SAELP)  

August 15, 2006

Dear Colleagues and Website Visitors,

Welcome to the Rhode Island Department of Education’s Highly Qualified Leaders Project Website!

The intent of this website is to share our learning around the topic of leadership development. We know that one of the most daunting challenges for all leaders is to be able to successfully connect theory to practice. Compounding this problem is the reality that there is little time or opportunity to learn with and from others who face the same challenges.

This website provides this opportunity for you. Highlighted within the toolkit section (see menu to the right) is the hard work of over a dozen demonstration sites representative of Rhode Island school districts, statewide professional organizations/education partners, higher education, and education collaboratives. The information is presented in practice-friendly toolkits detailing the sites’ research-based program models and protocols including tips for successful implementation.

It is anticipated that you will profit from your search of these creative approaches. You may simply want to gain some ideas that appear relevant to your work or you may choose to adapt or adopt the practices. You may also choose to review the various links to state and outside resources to broaden your understanding of the various models.

In Rhode Island we recognize that successful leadership is essential as we strive for reform and improved student achievement. We are proud to present this site with its focus on education leadership.

Sincerely,

Todd D. Flaherty, Ed.D.
Deputy Commissioner of Education

Visitors to this site: