Barbara J. Smith has a depth of experiences in education that include over four decades as a teacher, principal, teacher educator, school founder, and board member in public, international, independent and charter schools. Smith is committed to serious change in schools that improve both conditions for teachers and learners.

• Introduction: Changing the landscape of teachingChapter 1: Pay DayChapter 2: Significantly reducing class sizeChapter 3: Time to polish, prepare and reflectChapter 4: Time to teach and learnChapter 5: Time for robust professional learningChapter 6: Reducing the volume of expectationsChapter 7: Trusting teacher’s capacity to assess studentsChapter 8: Respect and recognition of teacher insight, action and creativityChapter 9: Teacher supportsChapter 10: Meaningful mentorship and performance appraisalChapter 11: Family communication and interactionChapter 12: Ample access to resourcesChapter 13: Stunning and stimulating spacesChapter 14: Teacher leadership opportunitiesChapter 15: Health & safetyConclusion: I want to be a teacher.

This book provides valuable insight into the landscape of the teaching profession and the education system at large. It draws a blueprint for school systems to develop a strategic plan aimed to attract talent into the teaching profession and keep teachers in the field of education. Smith advocates for solutions to the teacher shortage and retention in a concrete and practical way. She addresses the importance of teachers' health and wellness to making the profession sustainable in the long run. Furthermore, Smith emphasizes the significant role of professional learning opportunities in teachers’ growth both professionally and personally. More importantly, she envisions the positive effects of establishing strong and reciprocal relationships among teachers, school administrators, and parents and families in attracting and retaining high-quality teachers. Recommended. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals.