Many teacher leaders were also identified in the schools studied, further reinforcing their value and impact. One English teacher, who had been at Marvin for over 30 years, was mentioned by every person interviewed as a primary reason for student and school success. She was identified as one of the most respected and most demanding teachers in the region. “She doesn’t excuse things. The kids know she’s tough and fair. She is part of the institution itself.” Another teacher explained, “A lot of my success is from her help. She helps with the structure of the curriculum. She sees the bottom line is teaching students. She knows that is what’s most important.”