Courage is the most needed quality of leaders, especially educational leaders where the conventional structures and practices of schools obstruct sustainable improvement. Bill and his colleagues realize that good stories inspire, but they also teach. So here is the most comprehensive collection I have ever seen of stories and resources for us all to build our courage. That’s not all, of course. There are also loads of powerful stories about good communication, collaboration and five other aspects of good leadership. A book not to be missed.

Jon Saphier, founder and chairman, Research for Better Teaching

In Setting the Stage for Learning: Activating the Power of Stories to FacilitateLearning each chapter masterfully addresses crucial themes such as courage, communication, collaboration, coaching, change, conflict, and creativity, culminating in a powerful conclusion that ties together the essence of storytelling in learning. Sommers’ and his co-authors have demonstrated the ability to blend narrative with practical application offers readers not only knowledge but also the tools to implement these strategies effectively. This book is essential for those eager to create impactful, story-driven environments in education and leadership. Sommers and the co-authors have once again delivered a resource that is as enlightening as it is engaging.

Jakub Grzadzielski, ICF ACC coach, Marshall Goldsmith Certified executive coach, WCI Professional Certified coach

In this insightful guide, Sommers, and his co-authors, identify and explore seven critical elements essential for leaders to adeptly manage and navigate their roles. They set the stage with a rich library of stories, videos, research, quotes, and thought-provoking questions designed to accelerate your learning and application of the topics. This book has been a game-changer for me and countless other professionals, saving us innumerable hours by providing a robust framework that prepares teachers, teacher leaders, and administrators alike. Through compelling stories, engaging videos, and practical activities, Sommers and colleagues help us focus on what truly matters. Dive Setting the Stage for Learning and transform the way you approach leadership—it's a must-read for anyone looking to make a lasting impact.

Brandon Mergard, CEO, Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coaching®

Since men and women were on this earth, Stories have always been a primary source of communication, but for some reason we have lost the meaning of how truly valuable our stories can be to provide metaphors, context, and truths. Setting the Stage is an exceptional book by authors who have experienced the power of storytelling in their work as educators. Setting the Stage for Learning: Activating the Power of Stories to FacilitateLearning is a hands-on resource for all educators who understand how stories can impact children's lives in a profound way.

Betty Burks, retired deputy superintendent of San Antonio ISD, executive leadership coach

If you are a professional developer, then Setting the Stage, is going to save you a lot of time. The book is filled with stories, video clips, quotations, and activities that anyone can use to lead discussions about important topics like collaboration, creativity, conflict, coaching and change. Do you lead PD? If so, this book will help you be more effective and save you time. It is an essential toolkit for anyone who leads learning conversations.

Jim Knight, founder, Instructional Coaching Group

If you are a busy school leader who wants to ensure adults are focused on achieving the best outcomes possible for each student, this book is for you. Organized to save leaders time, to set up and prepare the activity, and instead focus on the actual conversations you need to have with your team or group. Setting the Stage for Learning offers meaningful activities and strategies to set you up to do that work efficiently and quickly. Every suggestion offered is a tried and true practice used by a school leader in a school setting. The chapter topics are broad and applicable to virtually any conversation you need to have in a school setting - allowing you to bring the detail and specifics to the work that needs to be done. Rich with quotes, discussion questions, video clips and stories to offer perspective, you will find a "hook" for both eager and reluctant participants in any room. We will use ideas from this text in our own work with school leaders!

Deb Henton, EdD, executive director, MN Association of School Administrators (MASA)