The International Center for Leadership in Education contains many resources to assist schools in adopting new and better school models. In a recent article, “Best Practices to Next Practices: A New Way of ‘Doing Business’ for School Transformation”, by John McNulty he provided the following recommendations for leading schools to true transformation.
- Business as usual can no longer be the standard. This should be the first lesson when it comes to transforming our schools to accommodate the 21st century world. We have to take on a new mindset, one that thrives on the unknown, appreciates ambiguity, and relishes being different.
- A blend of best practices and next practices is the right mix. Standardization needs to be balanced with new, yet-to-be-proven ideas.
- Focus on being different first and then on being better. If schools want to break free from the 20th century model, different strategies and ideas have to be given priority. “New” should come before “improved.” Collaboration is essential for success. Cooperation won’t get leaders the results they need.
- Collaboration is mutual engagement among all stakeholders to solve today’s complex challenges in schools, in the workforce, and in life. Dedicated time to be innovative is an important concept to support.
- Expect the first version not to be perfect. Perfecting any kind of product or service takes time and requires constant feedback. The same is true for new school programs and initiatives. Schools should not be penalized for initiating new ideas and practices that are not perfect the first time around.
How do we create this culture of innovation that will allow “next practices” to flourish in Sweetwater?