The Call to Courage emphasizes the impact of advocacy and bravery in real-world settings. The authors present a series of examples and applications that are designed to help readers identify their personal barriers to practicing bravery in tough educational settings. These examples are not only thought-provoking but also practical, making the journey toward greater courage a manageable and achievable goal. Presented through a clear, narrative approach, the authors use real-world stories of overcoming adversity and bravery to promote inclusion and diversity as a background to encourage readers to take tough stances where tough stances are needed. Advocating for freedom and student success, the authors include stories from diverse individuals who have faced significant challenges, adding a human touch and making the book both relatable and inspiring. The Call to Courage is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their personal growth and resilience. The authors have crafted a compelling guide that encourages readers to step outside of their comfort zones and embrace the transformative power of courage. Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty; professionals.
— Choice Reviews
The Call to Courage responds to the urgent need for educative leadership in times of political divisiveness. Its pragmatic ideas for reducing polarization while advancing justice will serve the field for years to come.
— Linda Darling-Hammond, Charles E. Ducommun Professor of Education, Emeritus, Stanford University; President, the Learning Policy Institute
The Call to Courage will inspire and sustain leaders who want to do the right thing, even when it is difficult.
— Joshua P. Starr, EdD, managing partner at the International Center for Leadership in Education; former superintendent and former CEO of Phi Delta Kappa International
Through compelling narratives and insightful strategies, The Call to Courage urges parents, educators, students, and community leaders to confront the forces that seek to politicize education and undermine its democratic principles.
— Shaun Nelms, superintendent of Educational Partnership Organization, Rochester city school district; William and Sheila Konar Director for the Center for Urban Education Success at the University of Rochester
Drawing on the experiences of two superintendents who champion educational equity, The Call to Courage offers a vision for how we can all stand up and make a difference.
— John Rogers, professor of education, UCLA; director, UCLA Institute for Democracy, Education, and Access
This book explains how educators and communities can come together to counter falsehoods with truths and protect the democratic principles in our schools.
— Colt Gill, Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction and Director, Oregon Department of Education
The Call to Courage is a must-read for those fighting to ensure public schools continue to be students’ and families’ pathway to success
— Gustavo Balderas, Ed. D., President of the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, 2023 Superintendent of the Year, National Association of Bilingual Educators
Through examples of everyday heroes who transcend fear to make a difference, The Call to Courage inspires us to engage, offers us practical strategies for overcoming hate, and reminds us that courage is the essential foundation of meaningful action.
— Brent McKim, president, National Council of Urban Education Associations; president, Jefferson County Teachers Association, Louisville, Kentucky
I was buoyed by hearing the stories of how others chose to show courage, reclaim the narrative, and work collaboratively through open dialogue to resolve differences.
— Janice E. Jackson, former deputy superintendent, Boston Public Schools; former deputy assistant secretary, U.S. Department of Education–Office of Elementary and Secondary Education
Berman and Brown have written a book that provides a thoughtful and principled perspective about the importance of leading with courage in our divided communities.
— Craig Hawkins, executive director, Coalition of Oregon School Administrators
The Call to Courage confronts all of us with the need to counter the attacks on local schools and districts and to stand up for the core values of public education as being inclusive, equitable, and purposefully diverse.
— Carl Glickman, University of Georgia; co-author of The Essential Renewal of America's Schools: A Leadership Guide for Democratizing Schools from the Inside Out
The Call to Courage is an inspirational call to action and essential reading for those dedicated to shaping a brighter future for our children and nation.
— Aaron C. Spence, superintendent, Loudoun County Public Schools, Virginia
By delving into the roots of courage, exploring personal stories, and addressing pivotal questions, The Call to Courage empowers education leaders, families, and communities to confront divisive challenges in a productive, human-centered way, nurturing courage in ourselves and our students.
— Lu Young, executive director, UK Center for Next Generation Leadership; past chair, Kentucky Board of Education; former district superintendent
The Call to Courage fiercely champions equity in education, promoting unity against divisive forces that imperil inclusivity and opportunity.
— Alex Marrero, superintendent, Denver Public Schools; president-elect, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents
The Call to Courage is a must-read for everyone committed to inclusive education through bold, visionary leadership.
— Charles S. Dedrick, EdD, Executive Director, New York State Council of School Superintendents