There is not a day that goes by that school leaders do not get criticized, second-guessed, or corrected and almost always it is in public. What drives someone to embrace this seemingly thankless job? Most are somehow called to it, by an inner knowing that it is their work or by invitation from others who see in them what they may not. They may exhibit passion, compassion, vision, intelligence in multiple forms, authenticity, integrity, and deeply held values. When the time requires, they stand up courageously. Can these qualities be taught ...or are they in us from early on?

The story of how each of us became who we are is similar only in that we began as children and grew up. The details of that journey are different for each of us. However, Burns (2003) reported the most important influences on the shaping of leaders lie in their childhood years. Lignon, Hunter, and Mumford (2008) agree that leaders' understanding of themselves and their life experiences shape the way they think and act. Leaders act upon their experiences and self-understanding, which influences how they approach a challenge or a problem.

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