This guide aims to help education policy leaders develop effective policy in support of good teaching and learning. It provides tools and resources that help policy leaders to: (1) Look back at the research on strategies and practices that have been proven to bring about results for the greatest number of students; (2) Look around in order to understand the current context and implications of proposed changes well enough to manage change effectively; and (3) Look ahead by exploring emerging trends to develop policy that will hold up in the future. (Contains 1 footnote.) [The following McREL staff members contributed to the development of this workbook: Laura Lefkowits, Jill Conrad, Carolyn Woempner, Vicki Urquhart, and Natalie Voltes.]