Embarking on an initiative to implement evidence-based reading instruction can be both exhilarating and daunting for school and district leaders. Some may think that adopting a curriculum grounded in the principles of the science of reading will automatically ensure success. Choosing a strong curriculum is a crucial step, but it is important to remember that change happens because of the people involved, and, for many, change is hard. This article presents how leaders play an essential role in achieving implementation fidelity. They face challenges and pressures in making such a transition, from aligning instructional practices to fostering a culture of continuous improvement. But by leveraging strong leadership strategies and the principles of implementation science, they can navigate these challenges and shepherd their schools to higher literacy achievement