We helped John F. Kennedy High School reach a 97% graduation rateLearn more

The Schools Our Students Deserve

A Comprehensive Framework for Shaping Exceptional School Culture

By: Mario I. Acosta

Foreword by: Anthony Muhammad

Drive change by leveraging your school culture with this research-driven guide. It lays the foundation for an effective culture, helping educators explore school vision, behavior, climate, and instructional practices—and offering actionable strategies to enhance learning and foster lasting community engagement.

Experience the convenience of eBooks! Access your eBooks anytime, anywhere on any desktop, Android, or iOS device through VitalSource. eBook purchases are limited to one eBook per title, per account. Please visit our FAQ for more information.

Availability: In stock
Publication date:
Format: Paperback, eBook
Only %1 left
$48.95
Qty:

A practitioner’s guide to developing an effective school culture

Author Mario I. Acosta emphasizes the critical importance of school culture in enhancing student learning and optimizing teacher efficacy. In this guide, he defines and examines the foundations of an effective school culture and how it influences the school’s vision, values, climate, and community and family involvement. With research-backed strategies, real-world examples, and practitioner-driven insights, he provides actionable steps for implementing meaningful culture change that ensures lasting community impact.

K–12 teachers, leaders, and administrators can use this book to:

  • Establish balanced cultural values of strong academic integrity and mutual respect
  • Craft common working goals based on a vision of what their school culture should be
  • Identify and adopt positive behaviors that support culture change
  • Evaluate and strengthen the school’s climate to ensure educators feel safe and supported
  • Build support with students’ families and the community to reinforce school culture values

Related Topics

School Improvement


Additional Information

Product Code: BKL081, EKL072

ISBN: 9781943360963

Published By: Solution Tree

“This book is a game changer for school culture work! Mario Acosta skillfully presents the idea that ‘leaders must both respect the legacy of their culture and have the courage to guide it into new territory when the future demands change.’ Whether you’re just starting out or well into your leadership journey, this is the blueprint you’ve been waiting for—firmly rooted in purpose, filled with actionable strategies, and written with campus realities in mind.”

Jesica Borunda / Principal, Blackland Prairie Elementary School, Round Rock, Texas

“Rich with authentic practitioner examples and reflective questions, The Schools Our Students Deserve expands the boundaries of what’s possible by helping educators first define and understand their existing culture before working to shift current practices. More than a guide, this is a powerful call to action for educators to build cultures willing to grow so all students receive the learning experiences they deserve.”

Christopher J. Tranberg / Superintendent of schools, Branford, Connecticut

“Mario Acosta draws on his extensive experience as a practitioner and visionary leader to bring both insight and heart to this valuable guide. I have witnessed the transformation in our schools, the strengthening of relationships across our community, and the positive impact on student outcomes. This is a must-read for educators ready to lead with purpose, courage, and a deep commitment to change.”

Cynthia Guerrero / Assistant superintendent, Huntington Beach City School District, California

The Schools Our Students Deserve is the essential guide for every school or district leader. The practical strategies for leading a school culture that promotes student learning are so doable. I love the no-nonsense approach to change. Schools don't need expensive programs; they just need common sense. Thank you to author Mario Acosta for providing the common-sense recipe to successful school culture!”

Teri Thompson / Vice-president of operations, A+ College Ready

When can I access my eBook? Your eBook will be accessible through VitalSource once your payment has been processed.*

*When using a check or purchase order, the order submitted online will not be processed until Solution Tree receives the check or a copy of the signed official purchase order. Your purchase order must note payment terms of net 30 days. We cannot process purchase orders that do not note these payment terms. Please submit all payments to [email protected].

How do I access my eBook?

To access your eBook:

  • Create a free VitalSource account by visiting VitalSource.com. If you already have a VitalSource account, please log in to your account.
  • Paste the redemption code that Solution Tree will email you in the “Redemption Code” field on VitalSource.com/Redeem. (Note: You can also access your redemption code within your Solution Tree account under the “eBook” section.)
  • Click “Redeem.”
  • Enjoy! Once your code is redeemed, your book will be added to your VitalSource Bookshelf and can be read anytime, anywhere.

What are the technical requirements for accessing the eBook? A VitalSource account is required. To sign up for your free account, please visit VitalSource.com.

What if I have trouble accessing my eBook? Please contact VitalSource by emailing [email protected] or by utilizing their Live Chat feature.

What are the shipping and handling costs? There are no shipping or handling costs associated with eBooks. For paperback and hardcover book purchases, standard shipping costs apply. Please visit the Product Orders page for more information on shipping and handling costs.

Can I purchase multiple copies of the same eBook? Bulk orders are not currently available through the website. Website purchases are limited to one eBook per title, per account. If you want to order multiple copies of an eBook, please contact customer support at [email protected].

What if I need to request a refund on my eBook order? RETURN POLICY: We are unable to accept returns or cancel previously placed eBook orders.

Contact Us.