While the debate continues over whether to close failing schools or attempt fixing them, the author asserts that the solution most often lies in assigning strong leaders to them who will take definite and immediate action. Reviewing his own success turning around schools, he says creating a sense of urgency, unloading poor performing staff, and communicating clearly and consistently with staff are key to raising achievement levels in struggling schools. Create a strategic plan, accelerate professional development, use data, and focus on core competencies are other helpful levers.