With the advent of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, virtually every school in America is expected to meet high academic standards in the face of declining resources. The requirements to meet these standards are rising as funding decreases, and little help is available to schools. "Strength-Based Teaching" is intended to fill that void. "Strength-Based Teaching" provides school communities with the knowledge to successfully close the achievement gap. It is ideal for undervalued staff and "shadow kids" who are threatened by the prospect of school failure. This book is interactive to ensure high transfer rates, and it will debunk long-standing myths that continue to have a damaging impact on schools. For those serious about achieving high academic standards, this book is a must-read. After a preface, chapters in this book include: (1) Teaching as a Patriotic Purpose; (2) From Valued Ally to Vacant Vagabond: Understanding the Road Back; (3) Growth as a Moral Responsibility; (4) The Prodigal Child Returns Home; and (5) The Courage to Care. Also included is an epilogue entitled, Teaching-the Final Balancing Act. Appended are: (1) Decision by Consensus; and (2) Team-Building Activities for Students and Staff. A bibliography and information about the author conclude the book.