“Finally, a useful book on strategic planning—by educators and for educators—that realistically describes what they can do to dramatically improve their schools and the lives of the children and families they serve. The authors of Built to Deliver achieved this by deliberately sidestepping the usual abstract K–12 education frameworks of urban/rural communities, high-/low-income students, public/private schools, and so on. Instead, they spent countless hours in schools across the country, took careful note of what successful educators actually did, and from that effort synthesized a coherent set of organizational behaviors that are both useful and inspiring.

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In doing so, the authors redefine ‘educational leadership’ from a focus on vision and procedures to a detailed, no-excuses playbook on action. They reframe ‘strategic planning’ into ‘dynamic execution’ and create a coherent, execution-based accountability design—integrating familiar issues and building blocks of schools in new and exciting ways.

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Built to Deliver provides an invigorating and eminently useful rethinking of what it means to ‘plan’ and ‘lead’ in education. Educators, regardless of their specialization, should have this book in their back pocket when they enter their schools.”

— Guilbert C. Hentschke, Dean Emeritus, Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California

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“Built to Deliver sends a message I felt in my soul. It is a gut-punching reminder of what a school leader should focus on. This book will be open and on my desk as a daily reference tool.”

—Tom DeKeyser, Superintendent

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“Built to Deliver is a refreshing and bold take on strategic planning in education. Unlike the typical plans developed as compliance measures—with limited input and little lasting impact—this book outlines a powerful, relationship- and culture-centered approach that builds true capacity for change. It challenges the status quo by asserting what many in the field feel but rarely say aloud: our students deserve better, and that better starts with us—the leaders. By focusing on authentic collaboration and meaningful culture shifts, Built to Deliver shows how strategic planning can move beyond paper exercises to become a real driver of student success and system transformation.”

—Dr. Wendy Birhanzel, Superintendent, AASA 2025 Woman Superintendent of the Year

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“If you’ve ever wondered why your plans stall or why success feels just out of reach, Built to Deliver holds the answer. This isn’t just another leadership book filled with theory—it’s a battle-tested blueprint for real results. Whether you lead a district, manage a team, or aspire to create lasting change, this system equips you to turn bold ideas into bold outcomes. Clear. Actionable. Uncompromising. This book doesn’t belong on your shelf—it belongs open on your desk, guiding every critical decision you make.”

—Dr. Michelle Peters, University Professor and Department Chair

 

“During 34 years in public education, I read the works of most of the widely published educational leaders. Built to Deliver is the most original and promising systemic approach for educators who truly want to improve student achievement.”

—Ronald C. Wilson, Educational Consultant & Superintendent Emeritus

 

“Built to Deliver provides the framework to ensure execution of goals is not left to chance. This model views planning as a living system—not top-down, but one that everyone owns. The focus is on the classroom, with culture and brand promises as the foundation. The result is a practical and usable design for impact. I highly recommend it.”

—Dr. Christie Whitbeck, Superintendent, Fort Bend ISD and Bryan ISD (Retired)

 

“Built to Deliver is a remarkable work in which two brilliant minds combine their deep expertise in education and strategy to offer a powerful roadmap for school transformation. Written with clarity, pragmatism, and depth, this book is more than just a framework for school improvement—it is a call to lead with purpose, discipline, and accountability: core values that strengthen both educational institutions and society.”

—Natalia Ledezma, Talent Researcher and Consultant, Co-Founder and Director, Impakta Talent

 

“Strategic planning is not a new concept—unfortunately, too often the development and implementation of a strategic plan fails to make a meaningful difference in practice. Built To Deliver provides an easy-to-follow guide for building effective plans that embrace a systems approach and demystify how to achieve continuous improvement. A must-read for anyone preparing to facilitate a new strategic plan!”

—Dr. Sherri Smith, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators (PASA)

 

“Built To Deliver gives administrators an ‘outside-the-box’ approach to strategic planning by transforming the process into strategic learning. This book demonstrates how processes such as strategic learning allow organizations to pivot faster, leading to quicker results. It is a great resource for leaders who want to implement quick, data-driven changes that have lasting impact.”

—Dr. Trisha Nicole Ruiz, Higher Education Administrator

 

“As educational professionals, we often fall short—not for lack of effort, but because of the impractical approaches we sometimes adopt. One phrase that deeply resonates with me is, “If plans don’t translate to impact…” Far too often, we invest time and energy into developing plans that fail to drive meaningful change because they lack both practicality and relevance.

Built To Deliver offers a refreshing and much-needed shift in this dynamic. It provides actionable, grounded strategies that directly address the issue of stalled progress. I fully endorse the guidance, support, and pragmatic engagement this resource brings to the table. It is a timely and essential tool for educators committed to turning plans into measurable impact.”

— Dr. Akilah A. Martin, Assistant Vice President, Higher Education Professional/Adjunct Faculty

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“At a time in public education where societal changes, external forces, and politics converge to create barriers and obstacles to real change and progress, we need a clear pathway to real solutions and an approach that can get us there. This book does exactly that.”

—Charles Camarillo, Superintendent, Poteet Independent School District

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“Built To Deliver is a timely and necessary guide for educational leaders committed to transforming systems to truly serve all students. This book challenges conventional strategic planning and offers a bold framework for leadership development and implementation that gets results. It doesn’t just talk about what needs to change—it shows you how to make it happen. I highly recommend it to any leader serious about increasing student achievement through intentional, systemwide action.”

—Dr. Angélica Ramsey, Former Superintendent and President/CEO, 3CLeadership

 

“Built To Deliver will challenge your view of strategic planning and drive accountability across your system. It redefines what strategic leadership actually means. If you're serious about turning strategy into sustained performance, start here.”

—Dr. Traci Lightfoot, Executive Director of School Performance

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“As Deputy Superintendent of Goose Creek CISD, I’ve led through countless planning cycles—many full of vision but short on impact. Built To Deliver by Dr. Antonio Corrales and E. Ted Fujimoto is the strategic guide our profession has been waiting for. It moves beyond compliance-based plans and offers a clear, actionable framework for building systems that actually deliver results.

This book tackles the execution gap head-on, with practical tools that resonate at every level—from the boardroom to the classroom. It centers trust, coherence, and accountability in ways that reflect the real challenges district leaders face every day. Built To Deliver isn’t just a plan for planning—it’s a roadmap for restoring confidence in public education through action and outcomes.”

—Susan Jackson, Deputy Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction, Goose Creek Independent School District

 

“Built To Deliver is a clear, actionable guide for leaders who demand more than surface-level planning and are ready to build systems that actually deliver. Corrales and Fujimoto bridge the gap between vision and execution in a way that feels urgent and—more importantly—achievable.”

—Dr. Chris McDavid, School Builder & Educational Strategist

 

“In an era saturated with lofty plans and underwhelming follow-through, Built To Deliver stands out as a blueprint for real change. Whether you're leading a district, a campus, or a classroom initiative, this framework provides the clarity, discipline, and practical insight needed to move from vision to victory.”

—Dr. Brian T. Uplinger, Superintendent of Schools, Hazleton Area School District

 

“For a long time, I thought leadership meant being the one who caught everything before it fell. If I could just hold it all together, we’d be okay. My Aha moment came when I realized the real work wasn’t about doing more—it was about designing a system that could protect the culture we believe in. Once expectations became visible and execution became shared, I didn’t have to carry everything alone. The system did the heavy lifting—so we could lead with clarity, build trust, and put our energy into what matters most.”

—Stephanie Wood, Director of Admission & Marketing, Grandview Preparatory School

 

“Built To Deliver is the strategy book for people who live in the real world—where time is short, stakes are high, and excuses don’t matter. If you’re responsible for results, this book belongs on your desk, not your shelf.”

—Tom Burton, Former Superintendent & CEO, WeEmpower LLC

 

“This book will revolutionize strategic planning in schools and has the potential to fix many of the issues plaguing education today. The authors provide a clear framework to implement change and improve education at the system level.”

—Dr. Kent Divoll, University Professor and Program Director

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“The ultimate understanding of pure strategy—its true concepts and the implementation into its best form to actually produce measurable, life-changing performance. A truly amazing breakdown that could transform your way of thinking to accomplish the task at hand in the present school systems. A must-read!!”

—Kelly E. Hejtmancik Jr., ARPC, LUTC, CLTC, Financial Advisor / Wealth Manager / Partner, Strategic Financial Group and HV Strategic Wealth Management

 

“Built to Deliver gave me the clarity and tools I didn’t know I was missing—it’s the first strategic planning book that actually reflects the complexity of leading in real schools. If you’ve ever felt stuck between vision and execution, this book will help you bridge that gap and lead with purpose.”

—Dr. Mark Taylor, Director, Arch Ford Educational Service Cooperative, Arkansas

 

“Built To Deliver offers a deeply thoughtful and practical framework that reimagines strategic planning as a disciplined, co-constructed execution system rooted in trust, clarity, and belonging. Corrales and Fujimoto move beyond traditional planning models to help leaders focus on delivering meaningful results—not just creating well-intentioned goals. The book’s emphasis on “promises made” and the use of reflective protocols such as “I wonder…” statements provide a powerful foundation for building cultures of curiosity, ownership, and learning. This approach is at once deeply human and rigorously structured—offering both new leaders and seasoned practitioners a refreshingly actionable path forward.”

—Kari Krantz, Ph.D., Educational Leadership Consultant

 

“Built To Deliver is the book I didn’t know I needed. It’s not just theory—it gives clear, practical steps to drive real results in schools. If I were a district or building leader, this would be my go-to guide, my blueprint, my Bible. Every page is focused on what actually works.”

—Kristen Bethea Weatherall, Educational Leader and Local Lead Captain, Arkansas

 

“Built To Deliver is one of the most practical and inspiring books I’ve read on educational leadership. It doesn’t just talk about strategy—it shows you how to actually get things done. Corrales and Fujimoto cut through the buzzwords and offer a clear, honest look at why so many plans fail—and what it really takes to follow through. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by initiatives that go nowhere, this book is a game-changer. It’s thoughtful, grounded, and full of real stories that will stick with you. Every school leader should read this—and then share it with their team.”

—Dr. Amber Brown, University Professor and Program Director

 

“Built To Deliver is a blueprint for both new and experienced leaders seeking to navigate strategic planning with clarity and purpose. For anyone tired of plans that sit on shelves gathering dust, this book is bold, practical, and exactly what’s needed to turn ideas into impact.”

—Dr. Denise Mustin, District Director and Former School Principal

 

“Educational leaders have the best of intentions—but not all are equipped to turn those intentions into real impact. Through thought-provoking questions and step-by-step actions, Built To Deliver is a must-read for every school and district leader. Get out your highlighter—there’s so much in this book you’ll want to remember and reference.”

— Dr. Karen Matt, Chief Academic Officer

 

“Built To Deliver brings strategy to life. It replaces outdated planning practices with a dynamic framework grounded in culture, clarity, and continuous learning. Every school leader should keep this within arm’s reach.”

—Dr. Holly Keown, Chief of Staff, Crandall ISD

 

“This book is a powerful guide for leaders at any level who are ready to move from vision to action. With clear, step-by-step strategies rooted in purpose and people, it transforms planning into an empowering process—one that honors the heart of education while navigating its complexities. A must-read for those leading with conviction and striving to create lasting, meaningful change.”

—Dr. Julia Wright, Superintendent

 

“Built To Deliver is a concise and compelling read for anyone seeking to grow as a leader and produce lasting results. The authors blend wisdom and practicality to address not only how leaders are formed, but also how they can develop others, bridge relational and generational gaps, and lead effectively in educational settings. This is a must-read for anyone in education.”

—Jonathan Taylor, Pastor, Village Church and School Board Member

 

“Built To Deliver is a vital and timely call to action for anyone invested in the future of education. This book does not just diagnose the problem—it offers a practical, hopeful path forward for creating schools that truly serve students, families, and communities.”

— Dr. Barbara Ramirez, Director, TRIO Upward Bound, Houston Community College

 

“Built To Deliver inspired and challenged me after 28 years in education, including nine as a superintendent. Corrales and Fujimoto offer a systems-driven guide that sharpens leadership and shapes character—a must-read for any leader committed to purposeful, impactful work.”

— J.A. Gonzalez, Ed.D., Educator | Entrepreneur of the Human Spirit

 

“Built to Deliver brings a guided roadmap for organizational success into the hands of leaders—just as our industry prepares for the most significant pivot of the last 40 years. It's a must-read for all educators.”

—Dr. Carmela Levy-David, Success Coach & Former Superintendent

 

“If you are looking to change the game in education, Built To Deliver will help you and your team take strategic planning and implementation to the next level. We build great strategic plans that fall by the wayside… this book is the roadmap to assist with this ongoing problem when attempting to move toward continuous improvement.”

—Dr. Tanya Edwards, Cross-Functional Team Member / Middle School Principal

 

“Built To Deliver is more than just a book—it’s a blueprint for effective strategic planning. The practical and impactful strategies outlined within its pages provide a clear roadmap for organizations striving to turn vision into reality. By implementing the principles from Built To Deliver, leaders can ensure successful execution and long-term sustainability. This essential guide will strengthen any organization’s approach to strategic planning and drive meaningful results.”

—Dr. Torrance A. Brooks, Middle School Principal

 

“Built To Deliver is a game-changer for public education leaders like me who are tired of seeing strategic plans fall by the wayside. In a world full of lofty goals and little follow-through, this book provides the clarity, discipline, and practical tools we need to turn vision into real, lasting impact. It challenged how I view strategic planning and helped me rethink what it truly means to lead with purpose. Whether you’re leading a district, a campus, or a key initiative, this book is a must-read. It’s bold, practical, and exactly what we need to move from ideas to action and build a culture of continuous improvement.”

—Dr. Rachel Alex, Chief Academic and Accountability Officer; CEO and Founder, HELP in Schools

 

“Built To Deliver shifts our mindset from traditional strategic planning—often shaped by conventional standards—to a theorem-based, action-responsive approach rooted in the bold possibilities of an optimized organization. It poses a powerful question: If this is true, then what are we willing to do about it? The authors provide a practical roadmap for any organization struggling to move beyond the status quo yet willing to take bold, measurable steps toward organizational excellence.”

—Dr. Randy O’Brien, Superintendent Goose Creek Independent School District

 

“Built to Deliver is an essential guide for leaders ready to move beyond mere compliance in strategic planning. This book sharpens the focus on building strategic teams that drive meaningful progress, centers on evidence-based accountability, and offers a proven framework for sustaining true, productive change within organizations. For anyone seeking a practical, go-to resource to transform strategy into lasting impact, Built to Deliver delivers exactly that—empowering leaders to create change that endures.”

—Dr. Shawn Verow, Elementary Principal

 

“Built to Deliver is a call to reimagine how we lead. The framework illuminates how sustainable change emerges from designing systems where people feel safe, focused, and inspired to deliver on what matters most. This book will leave you rethinking not just how you plan, but how you lead—with clarity, compassion, and courage.”

—Dr. Amanda Smith, Director of Research, Accountability, and Federal Programs, La Porte Independent School District

 

“This is an enlightening and practical book that every educational leader must read before engaging in strategic planning. I found myself deeply immersed in its content, reflecting on its powerful message and transformative potential. The book urges leaders to visit schools that truly exemplify how children learn best—where Project-Based Learning and Social Emotional Learning are not just initiatives, but an integral part of the culture. In these schools, state accountability measures naturally follow because deep, relevant student learning is happening every day. The framework presented is the very answer educational leaders have been searching for—one that equips all instructional staff to embed strategy into daily routines, build a culture of trust, and ultimately make meaningful execution a reality.”

—Dr. Carolina “Carol” G. Perez, Former Superintendent and Instructional Leader

 

“When leaders begin thinking critically about the responsibility of leading their organizations, it should be imperative to have a strategic plan. It’s been said, ‘If you fail to plan, you plan to fail!’ Dr. Corrales and Fujimoto are cracking the code on developing effective and efficient leadership systems and practices for any organizational leader. This book is a must-read for any leader who wishes to lead with vision, intelligence, and courage. Implementing a systemic and duplicable approach to strategic planning is not only innovative but imperative in today’s world of leading change. I highly recommend a deep dive into this well-researched topic.”

—Dr. Jeff Collum, 28-Year Professional Educator; 14-Year Superintendent of Schools

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“Built To Deliver by Antonio Corales is a concise and practical guide for professionals aiming to optimize educational performance. Corales draws on real-world examples to outline strategies for streamlining operations, emphasizing adaptability and practicality. The book’s strength lies in its actionable insights and transformational processes. This is an ideal read for educational leaders and one that inspires efficiency and accountability.”

—Dr. Ryan L. Cunningham, Superintendent, Central Lake Public Schools

 

“Built To Deliver provides extraordinary insight on the best ways to engage forward-thinking strategic goals. As a leader, you will be inspired by the future-ready vision for a redesign of leadership in America.”

—Dr. Andre D. Spencer, Superintendent of Schools, Teaneck Public Schools

 

“Built To Deliver offers a timely and necessary shift in strategic planning in education, with fresh, innovative techniques that challenge the status quo. It reframes the conversation around student achievement in a way that is both practical and visionary. I found its approach refreshingly aligned with the realities and possibilities of today’s educational landscape. Built To Deliver has the potential to significantly influence how schools and districts define student achievement.”

—Leisa Finley, Business Development Professional and Board Member

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“As someone who has spent over three decades in public education—as a teacher, principal, and district administrator—I’ve seen countless initiatives, reforms, and well-meaning strategies come and go. Most are forgotten within a few years. Built To Deliver, however, is different. This isn’t just another book—it’s a mirror, a blueprint, and a moral imperative wrapped into one.

With piercing clarity, the authors lay bare the true crisis facing public education: not just a crisis of outcomes, but a crisis of trust. Their diagnosis is unflinching, yet their prescription is deeply hopeful. That balance is rare—and powerful. This is the book I wish I had 20 years ago. It’s honest, urgent, and refreshingly actionable.

For superintendents, principals, policymakers, and anyone who still believes in the promise of public education—Built To Deliver is required reading. Not because it offers every answer, but because it asks the right questions and offers a disciplined path from vision to reality. If we’re serious about restoring public trust—not just in our schools, but in the idea of public education itself—this book must not be ignored.”

—Dr. Racquel Rosenbalm, Veteran Administrator and Educator

 

“As educators, we are in the people business first and foremost. Built To Deliver is a powerful reminder of our deeper calling to serve. It offers a meaningful opportunity for leaders to pause, reflect, and ask themselves: Are we leading with love through actions that drive excellence in execution? Love is the most powerful lever we have to fulfill the promises we make as leaders—ultimately leading to more sustainable outcomes and, more importantly, better human beings.”

— Dr. Queinnise Miller, Educational Leader / Assistant Professor / International Speaker / CEO of Queinnise, LLC / Author / Leadership Coach / Mom

 

“Built To Deliver is a valuable roadmap for school districts. It is designed to strengthen strategic planning while intentionally fostering a culture of positive relationships. With practical systems in place to create a supportive student learning environment, this book helps ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. A must-read for all leaders!”

— Dr. Sheena Blain, Seasoned Public School Educator and District Administrator

 

“As a lifelong learner and public education leader, I’m always looking to add meaningful tools to my toolbox—and Built To Deliver is one I’ll reach for time and time again. This isn’t a book to read and shelve; it’s a hands-on guide that brings clarity and structure to the strategic planning process. School boards and education leaders will find it especially relevant, but its insights are valuable across all industries. Anyone serious about delivering real, measurable impact should keep this book within reach.”

— Angelia L. Moore, MBA, 2025 President of Indianapolis Public Schools

 

“Built To Deliver is an inspiring must-read for all educational leaders. Clearly written and thoughtfully structured, it walks you through how to focus and prioritize planning with practical, actionable steps. From defining your brand promise to delivering meaningful change, the book guides you every step of the way. Each page reinforces the importance of maintaining focus and coherence as you build your strategic plan.”

— Dr. Victoria Garcia, Elementary Principal

 

“A strong strategic plan involves more than just setting measurable goals and outlining action steps. In Built To Deliver, Corrales and Fujimoto highlight common pitfalls that frequently undermine even the best intentions—and offer guidance on how to build an environment that supports lasting success.”

— Dr. Kai Bouchard, High School Principal

 

“This book is the leadership GPS we all need! Not only does it tell you where to go—it shows you how to get there, and how to guide everyone who depends on you to arrive with clarity and purpose. It changes the tools in your toolbox you thought you needed and challenges you every step of the way to become the best leader—and build the best team—possible. Awesome!”

— Dr. Matthew Burke, Director of Performing and Visual Arts, La Porte ISD

 

“Built To Deliver will equip leaders with the knowledge to create a strategy and the skills to implement and sustain school improvement. The authors do a masterful job prompting the reader to reflect on systems within their organization and rethink how they lead.”

—Dr. Aeniqua Flowers, Executive Director of School Improvement, Alvin ISD

 

“If the words ‘strategic planning’ have ever struck fear in your heart, you need this book. The explanations of why we so often fail to achieve our goals are paired with an approach that is both logical and clear. Most importantly, the strategies are realistic and systemic.”

—Dr. Beth Lewis, University COO and Associate Vice President

 

“Built To Deliver champions educators and leaders as architects of human potential, offering actionable strategies to transform challenges into clarity, bureaucracy into empowerment, and vision into pathways that honor both the craft of teaching and the promise of every learner to be engaged, enriched, and empowered.”

—Dr. Mike H. Dominguez, Superintendent of Schools, USD 457 – Garden City Public Schools

 

“Built To Deliver is more than a framework—it’s a catalyst for the kind of leadership our schools need today. As a veteran superintendent, I’ve seen many strategic plans collect dust while students and educators wait for real change. Corrales and Fujimoto have given education leaders a resource that offers a practical, human-centered approach to turn promises into practice and rhetoric into results.”

—Dr. Shon Hocker, Superintendent

 

“Built To Deliver is a no-nonsense, high-impact guide for education leaders who are serious about execution—not just planning. It strips away the fluff and delivers a framework that transforms strategic intent into real, measurable results.”

—Armando X. Orduña, Ed.D., Founder & Principal Consultant, Inspira, Ltd. Co.

 

“Built To Deliver will transform how you think about strategic planning and elevate accountability across your organization. It redefines the true essence of strategic leadership. If you're committed to turning strategy into lasting performance, begin your journey here.”

— Johnny Smecca, School Board Member

 

“Built to Deliver is an essential guide for education leaders seeking effective school district and campus improvement. As a superintendent, I found its research-backed strategies and real-world examples invaluable for driving meaningful change. The book breaks down complex challenges into actionable steps, making improvement achievable and sustainable. With its practical insights and clear roadmap, it is a must-read for those committed to fostering student success and organizational excellence.”

—Dr. Demetrius McCall, Superintendent, Sheldon ISD

 

“Built to Deliver is a must-read for educational leaders ready to recalibrate their perspective on the past, present, and future of education. This book doesn't offer another fleeting theory or checklist—it provides a practical, adaptive framework that transforms strategic planning into meaningful, lasting impact. In an era where trust and transparency are more vital than ever, this work shines as a blueprint for action, not just aspiration.

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Built to Deliver is not about planning for planning’s sake—it’s about execution with purpose, clarity, and measurable results. It challenges leaders to rethink strategy not as a document, but as a living discipline rooted in accountability and action.

For any educator committed to making promises that are kept—not just spoken—this book is an essential guide and an inspiring call to action.”

—Johnny Briseno, Associate Superintendent of HR | 20+ Year Administrator | Principal Experience at All Levels

 

“Built to Deliver is a practical, inspiring guide that shows how to move from plans to real impact. It meets any leader wherever they are in their journey and serves as a manual for turning big ideas into lasting change in schools.”

—Dr. Norma Veguilla-Martinez, Director of Secondary Education, Goose Creek CISD

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“Built to Deliver strikes me as an essential work for school leaders, district officials, teacher educators, and educational consultants who are truly committed to change—to a deep transformation of their institutions. It’s a book that calls for radical alignment between promise and practice, a guide for building community trust, and a detailed manual for helping education fulfill its promises to society once again.”
—Dr. Elizabeth Miras, University Professor, Researcher, and Educational Consultant, Madrid, Spain

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“Built to Deliver is a must-read for CFOs who want to lead with purpose and are ready to be part of the change that drives real, lasting impact. It provides a powerful framework for mutual accountability, ensuring every financial decision contributes to transformational outcomes.”
—Dr. Jorgannie Carter, Chief of Finance and Business Services, Region 4 Education Service Center, Texas
 

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