One of the best books I’ve ever read. This is a very thought-provoking book. As a teacher serving many children in poverty, this book has stuck with me. Told by a teacher/Principal, Ms. Lopez really goes the extra mile for her students. I love that she called her students scholars. When students know that you believe in them, they often achieve more.

Inspiring! What Ms. Lopez does for her students is above and beyond, but those students deserve everything she can give. Teaching her students that they can belong in this world, and should think beyond the neighborhood they've grown up in, is such a powerful message.

A very inspirational story. I applaud anyone who has determination to make a difference in our educational system because it is never easy. The way it is written comes off as meaningful and not preachy.

I really appreciated this honest look at what it took for Ms. Lopez to invest herself in her community. I've found a lot of books illicit a "yeah sure, in a perfect world" from me, but this one seemed more legit. I felt more inspired that jaded about the ideas and method.

A free copy was given in exchange for an honest review.

This book was realistic in every way. It would be a great book to read if you are a new teacher.

Nadia Lopez is the visionary leader of Mott Hall Bridges Academy, a middle school in NYC teaching students who have had the odds stacked against them their entire life. This book resonated with me personally as a teacher at a Renaissance (the poorest of the poor) school. Ms. Lopez works tirelessly to advocate for her students, who she believes deserve better than to be on the fast track of getting filtered into the "prison pipeline". She knows the odds and is determined to turn education on its head to get her students the opportunities they deserve in life. The administration and teachers are constantly advocating for their students and hold them to high expectations because they know that they will be successful. I loved how the students are referred to as scholars and are treated as such. Ms. Lopez starts from the bottom and ensures that students are safe, healthy, and happy to be at school. I can relate all too well to holding a philosophy that the students cannot learn and be successful if their basic needs aren't met. Students work with the faculty to have goals to keep them accountable. This book re-energized me after having a rough year and feeling unsuccessful It reminded me that it's easy to feel burnt out and want to throw in the towel, but if we never give up on our students, we will guide them to success as adults.

This book was not appealing or interesting to me. I believe the book is fine, but it wasn't what I thought it was.

Eye-opening. Inspirational. As a teacher, it sort of recharges the battery and reminds me why I got into this crazy business. I will be recommending this to my colleagues.

I am so inspired by Ms. Lopez's passion and dedication. I can't say that I would be able to do the same things she has done, but the payoff and reward of seeing so many lives changed must be so incredible. I can only hope to be sparked by her drive and work toward a similar legacy.