This book examines the work of elementary-level, non-supervisory, school-embedded, instructional teacher leader roles using research-based case studies. Instructional teacher leaders aim to help teachers develop the skills and knowledge necessary for continued instructional improvement and, ultimately, enhanced student learning. The authors use research to identify the fundamental components of instructional teacher leadership, which they present in the form of cases that are drawn from actual schools. For each case, the authors provide theoretical frameworks from which to examine the role and activities to deepen understandings. This research-based instructional resource: (1) Illustrates the work that teacher leaders do, the dilemmas they face, and the contexts within which they work; (2) Facilitates the examination of teacher leadership from a variety of conceptual, theoretical, and analytical perspectives; and (3) Provides high-quality, research-based instructional materials for use in formal courses, professional development workshops, and by individuals engaged in teacher leadership. [Foreword by Susan Moore Johnson.]