Building on the themes presented in his book, School Cannot Do It Alone, Jamie makes the case that this is public education’s most hopeful time. He acknowledges the threats arising from multiplying mandates, shifting demographics, media hype, and a changing economy. But he demonstrates how all districts can marshal the tremendous resources at their disposal to initiate a conversation that produces the Four Prerequisites of Progress: community understanding, trust, permission to change, and support. This presentation includes the popular "Blueberry Story" and a discussion of the mental affliction "Nostesia" – a disease comprised of 50% nostalgia, 50% amnesia, which prevents Americans from appreciating the achievements of their local schools.