“A system is a set of related components that work together in a particular environment to perform whatever functions are required to achieve the system’s objective.”
Meadows, 2008
Leaders who impact student outcomes understand their fundamental task is to create a system in which everyone is dedicated to student learning. This module focuses on leadership for implementing and sustaining a systemic framework. Leadership for effective implementation of District Continuous Improvement includes strategies for the following.
- Aligning – Developing an implementation plan that aligns district-wide initiatives and performance goals in a common focus
- Path Setting – Establishing structures and processes to support collaboration and communication across the district
- Modeling – Leading within the context of a growth-centered, trust-based culture
- Empowering – Supporting and monitoring active participation and the implementation of identified effective practices
Course Outcomes
In this module, District Leadership Team members will understand the following.
- Key actions in the implementation and support of effective practices to maximize impact on student growth and learning
- The application of systems thinking to the implementation of District Continuous Improvement
- How to develop and support a culture of continuous improvement and collective responsibility
- District-wide structures and processes that support collaboration and communication
- Alignment of individual effort and goals to a district focus
- How to support and monitor the engagement of district staff in the implementation process
Reflective Questions
- As you consider your current district system, how would you describe the interconnectedness and interactions that currently exist across the district?
- What are the strengths of your learning system?
- What are potential challenges to a system-wide approach to implementation within your district?
Coaching Companion
Blog Post: Tools for Systems Thinkers; The 6 Fundamental Concepts of Systems Thinking (Acaroglu, 2017).
Blog Post: Dancing With Systems (Meadows, (n.d.)).