Happy New Year!!! I’ve got some awesome videos and articles coming your way, starting with the first Episode of Next Gen Schools dropping Monday :)
In November, I was lucky enough to read George Couros’ new book, Forward Together: Moving People from Conflict to Community in Contentious Times. I’ve been a fan and friend of George’s work for years, and this is some of his best work. Here’s what I wrote as an endorsement and I meant every word.
Forward, Together is the leadership book our schools truly need right now. George Couros doesn’t offer a one-size-fits-all formula; instead, he gives us timeless principles paired with honest, story-driven perspectives that help leaders navigate the real, messy work of bringing people together.
What stands out most is his vulnerability. George openly shares both successes and failures, reminding us that leadership isn’t about perfection, it’s about continually recalibrating, reflecting, and reconnecting with purpose. This book isn’t a quick fix, and it isn’t meant to be. It’s a guide, a conversation starter, and a reminder that the answers we seek are often already within our people. Every leader should read Forward, Together, and then read it again with their team.
Here’s what George says about the inspiration behind this book:
One of the most essential reasons I wanted to write this book is because of my own school experience as a child. Growing up in the small town of Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Canada, I was reminded of the impact the school and the people had on me, which is central to the ideas shared in the book.
School wasn’t central to the community; it was the community.
My family knew how important education was, and they worked hand-in-hand with the school to ensure I had every opportunity to find success during and after my time in school. That should be the standard we aspire to.
And although this is my first “solo” book in over a decade, it only came to fruition because of the stories and inspiration from so many educators who are creating a standard we should aspire to.
Rather than relying on quick fixes or easy answers, Forward, Together focuses on how leaders create the conditions for collaboration, understanding, and shared ownership.
Part one introduces clear principles that help leaders reflect, listen, and guide people toward connection. Part two brings those principles to life through real stories, candid moments, and hard-earned lessons that acknowledge the complexity of leading people with differing perspectives.
Throughout the book, Couros demonstrates what it means to lead with intention by knowing when to step forward, when to step back, and when to step aside so others can lead, grow, and recognize their own value. Forward, Together is a guide for school and community leaders who want to foster belonging, elevate voices, and build resilient communities where people feel valued, heard, and empowered to flourish together.
A.J. Juliani
PS - Interested in bringing me in to work with your staff on A.I. with a purpose, Meaningful and Relevant Learning, and Engagement in the Classroom? Learn more on my speaking page or email me at any time!