Adam and I are part of a statewide program called "TLC Administrator Support Program". Essentially what this program is, is a network of other schools and administrators that are implementing the Teacher Leader Grant so that we have the support, coaching, and guidance we need to lead this initiative with fidelity. Part of the program asks us to identify what our Action Plan is for using our teachers and teacher leaders effectively for our students. Here is my Call to Action that I read to the Building Leadership Team -
We are all somewhat familiar with Hattie’s effect sizes and impacts on student growth. I want to talk more about your role and leadership in creating and sustaining a truly “Collaborative Culture”. We know that the impact size for a truly Collaborative Culture is substantial on student achievement/growth = .95. One of the biggest challenges our team has is supporting 100% the importance, vision, and impact a collaborative culture has on student achievement - shared leadership is a huge part of this idea = I need your leadership and advisory in making this culture happen and sharing the lead. One huge component to a collaborative culture is the TLC position, and other teacher leadership opportunities like the BLT, and the idea that we need to be supporting and challenging each other to be the best educators we can be - that’s where you come in as leaders and professionals in that area. We know that “best practice” in education is through creating a collaborative culture and I need your 100% commitment and support to leading this initiative including support for our Instructional Coach and all teacher leaders to be change agents. When we create the type of culture that is truly collaborative by nature, we will see tremendous growth and success by our students in every way imaginable.
Right now I get the sense that we are feeling overwhelmed by all of the components that it takes to truly be a "Collaborative Culture"; I know that at times I am. We are implementing MTSS and more effective grading practices, we are meeting with committees to guide and lead important initiatives (MTSS, PBIS etc.), we are meeting with at least one PLC to support one another as we learn and grow as a community........it's a lot to take on! I want to remind you that the power of having a team is having people to lean on and share leadership with when we feel overwhelmed or lost. In other words, the power of a team is that not only can we accomplish amazing things for our kids, but we have people to lean on when we are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. The people that I am part of a team with are invaluable to my personal and professional growth.
Please rely on your team(s) through all of this hard work because it is the right work. We are professionals and nobody can do what we do but we can't do it alone. We must rely on our team(s) to do the work with us.
