Rally Round the Flagpole: A Book by Jacksonville Educator Donna Snively Hulsey
This post was first shared in September 2016 and updated in January 2026. We are glad to recognize Donna Snively Hulsey, a member of our Jacksonville community, for her book Rally Round the Flagpole, which describes how she and a community built a new elementary school around a shared vision.
What is the book about?
In July 1989, Donna was named the first principal of Alimacani Elementary in Jacksonville, more than a year before the school opened. Rather than wait for the building, she worked with families, teachers and neighbors to agree on what the school should be before construction was finished. The book tells the story of how the school took shape and what its early years were like.
It is written for parents, educators and community members who want to improve a school, whether they are starting a new one or renewing an existing one. Drawing on her experience, she lays out how clear leadership, a shared purpose and collaboration helped the school succeed.
About the author
Donna Snively Hulsey has served Duval County Public Schools as a teacher, principal and regional director, and has taught at the undergraduate and graduate levels. She lives in Jacksonville with her husband and has two children and five grandchildren.
Why we share stories like this
Our office is part of a neighborhood full of people doing good work. When someone in our community publishes a book like this, we are happy to help others find it. If you are interested in education, leadership or community building, we encourage you to read it.
To reach our office, please visit our contact page.
About the author. CJ Henley, DMD, is a general dentist in Jacksonville whose practice focuses on cosmetic and restorative dentistry, dental implants and dental care around head and neck cancer. Meet Dr. Henley.
CJ Henley, DMD, PA · 3675 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 · 904-398-1549
Updated October 2026.
Sources
Amazon listing for Rally Round the Flagpole by Donna Snively Hulsey.