Leadership 101: Challenge the Process and Enable Others to Act

 Too often in life, the easy way out is to simply put your hands up and say, "We can't do that". In schools especially, it is easier to maintain the status quo. But in leadership in general, not changing is easier and blame a lack of action on any of the following:

• We don't have that in the budget.
• We don't have the time.
• It is not on the test.
• Yeah, that would be great, but...

Kouzes and Posner (2017) in their book, The Leadership Challenge discuss the importance as leaders to challenge the process. Too often, as organizations, we get stuck in a rut because we have had some success and we stop growing or we do not evolve past our immediate success. Kouzes and Posner would probably recommend the exact opposite of status quo. So how do we do it....

Take Risks and Support Innovation. 

As a leader, it is not just you taking risks...it is giving permission for others to take risks in your organization. Don't be the gatekeeper of innovation. There is no blueprint or playbook for being the first person or organization to do something. Innovation has no playbook so it scares the majority of people. Status quo with some success is comfortable. Some success though is just that...some. Let's strive for greatness. Greatness requires courage and stepping outside the comfort zone. A few years ago, I had 2 teams of teachers come to me and ask if they could open the wall up and team teach their classes as one large group. I knew the research behind team teaching and I without hesitation said "yes". I can still remember their reaction..."REALLY". Both teams spent the summer planning and transforming their rooms. Their rooms become places where student needs could be addressed almost immediately and that just right pace was there for every kid. Within the building and community, there were mixed thoughts. Some teachers even encouraged their families to avoid those rooms, yet at the end of the year, state test scores (which I don't emphasize) told the story. It was a family environment in those rooms, but it was also a place where kids excelled. And all I did was say yes. I empowered teachers, supported them, and they ran...and so did our kids.

Teamwork, Collaboration, and Big Dreams

Too often in an organization, even beyond schools, we become disconnected because of the amount of Top-Down directives of change. The flow in education almost always appears to be non-stop. As a leader though, you have to find a balance and you have to create a process for hearing other voices and creating collaborative opportunities across your organization or school. If I'm the leader and I go into a meeting of a leadership team or any type of meeting and I simply share my vision and my own big dreams and then lay out a plan for it...I might as well try to paddle upstream on a flooded river. The only person who is invested is me as the leader. Everyone else, regardless of how great the dream is will see it as another initiative. Simon Sinek says this in one of his Ted Talks, "People don't buy what you do, they buy why you do it!" The key to moving the needle of an organization, is not your personal why...It is connecting with your team and finding the collective why. Otherwise, what happens? You get on a path to greatness based on one person's "why" and then they leave. What happens then? The organization hires someone else, they bring in another important "why" and change the direction of the organization. As a leader, we have to develop the dreams of our organization or school, not how we are going to chase our own dreams but our collective dreams. Bring your community, your school together and build the vision and dreams together. Then those road blocks and hurdles get in the way and you have a collective effort driven by passion that works to go around them. 

Develop a Team

Organizations often also have leaders have their hearts in the right place but they try to go alone. They take everything on their own shoulders and try to do everything themselves. One person can't move an organization. Leaders do this for various reasons. Some, are servant leaders and feel it is their duty to do all the heavy lifting. Reflecting on my time as a principal, this is my weakness. I didn't want to burden others with extra stuff. Other leaders may be micro managers and want to relinquish control. They assign you a task but then tell you every little step to take to accomplish it.

In order for an organization to grow and thrive, you have to develop your team. John Maxwell's The 5 Levels of Leadership, calls this level 4 leadership or people development. You have had some success and your team trusts you, to take that next step, you need to grow the potential of your team. Cut them loose and give them responsibility. Have check points just for encouragement but let them find their way. If you have a shared vision or dream for your organization, that is their guide. Let them own it and empower them to do the next great thing.

To Recap:

1. Throw the status quo out the window and begin asking questions about how you can get better.

2. Connect your organization/school as one with a collaborative process to develop your big dreams.

3. Give your team permission to do great things and get out of their way.

4. Grow your people into great leaders.

5. Repeat.

There is no playbook and there will be setbacks but your organization will thrive. Status Quo may be comfortable when you are seeing some success, but it is not great. Being average means you are just better than the worst. Get after it. Inspire your team to do great things. Support them and there is nothing you can't accomplish.

 Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2017). The leadership challenge (6th ed.). John Wiley & Sons.

Maxwell, J. C. (2011).The 5 levels of leadership: proven steps to maximize your potential. New York: 

    Center Street.

A little about me...

I'm a 28 year veteran of public education with 15 years as a building leader before becoming a STEM consultant and then deciding that teaching was what I wanted to do again in the STEM field. I am now a 9-12 STEM teacher teaching PLTW, Robotics, Drones, and Leadership. Thank you for taking the time to read my ramblings. If you want to connect, you can find me on the bluebird @cmill_stemguy or my new email is cmiller@caldwell.k12.oh.us.

Empowering Students: The Key to Increased Engagement

The traditional classroom model is evolving to embrace student-centric approaches that prioritize engagement and attendance. Student voice and choice, authentic learning experiences, and project-based learning (PBL) have emerged as transformative strategies in achieving these goals. Let's delve into how these elements synergize to create an environment where students are not just attendees but active participants in their learning journey.

Amplifying Student Voice and Choice

Empowering students to have a voice in their learning journey fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility. When students have the opportunity to express their interests, preferences, and ideas, they feel valued and engaged. Integrating student choice into lesson plans allows for personalized learning experiences tailored to individual needs and interests. Whether it's selecting a topic for research, deciding on project themes, or choosing from a variety of assignments, giving students a say in their learning path sparks enthusiasm and motivation.

Fostering Authentic Learning Experiences

Authentic learning goes beyond rote memorization and standardized tests; it immerses students in real-world scenarios that resonate with their lives. By connecting classroom concepts to tangible, real-life situations, students understand the relevance and application of their learning. Whether it's conducting scientific experiments, exploring historical events through primary sources, or engaging in community service projects, authentic learning cultivates curiosity and critical thinking skills. As students grapple with genuine problems and challenges, they become active participants in their education, driving deeper understanding and engagement.

Empowering Through Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Project-based learning (PBL) epitomizes the integration of student voice, choice, and authentic learning. In PBL, students embark on in-depth investigations of complex questions or problems, working collaboratively to devise solutions or create tangible artifacts. PBL cultivates essential skills such as collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity—all while promoting autonomy and agency. By immersing themselves in hands-on, interdisciplinary projects, students become deeply engaged in their learning, often exceeding expectations and inspiring their peers.

The Impact on Engagement and Attendance

By embracing student voice and choice, authentic learning experiences, and PBL, educators can catalyze a transformation in student engagement and attendance. When students feel empowered to direct their learning and explore topics of interest, they are more likely to be actively involved in class. Authentic learning experiences resonate with students on a personal level, igniting curiosity and intrinsic motivation. As they delve into meaningful projects and collaborate with peers, students develop a sense of belonging and purpose, strengthening their commitment to attending class regularly.

The sense of ownership and accomplishment fostered by these approaches creates a positive feedback loop, further bolstering student engagement and attendance. As students witness the direct impact of their contributions and the relevance of their learning, they become more invested in their education journey. Ultimately, by prioritizing student voice and choice, authentic learning, and PBL, educators can cultivate a vibrant learning community where every student is motivated, engaged, and eager to participate.

When you integrate student voice and choice, authentic learning experiences, and PBL represents a paradigm shift in education—one that places students at the center of their learning journey. By harnessing the power of these approaches, educators can not only increase student engagement and attendance but also nurture a generation of lifelong learners equipped with the skills and mindset to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Igniting Your Classroom: Unleashing the Power of Problem-Based Learning with PBL Works

 End the Madness

Our students are more than test takers, yet we continue to drive this home. Schools across the country spend the better part of February-April drilling for high stakes tests…What do we do? We spend hours working on how to answer multiple choice questions when we are unsure of the answer. We go through step by step on how to complete an essay. Here is my question: When is the last time an employer has asked you to do either?

Yet when asked to implement Problem-Based Learning (PBL), here are 3 of the excuses or answers as to why we can’t implement a PBL:

3. I have to cover all my standards.

2. My kids can’t do it.

1. It is not on the test.

Here is my pushback…we have decades of data that demonstrate that for the large majority of schools, this process is not working because we have made little progress on improved test scores that we all want to worry over and lose sleep about. Despite all this data, we are reluctant to change. On top of that, we are losing our kids. They are more disengaged in learning than ever before. So in reality, we have the data to support change.

PBL transcends the traditional rote memorization approach by immersing students in authentic, complex problems that ignite their curiosity, foster collaboration, and cultivate critical thinking skills. At the forefront of this pedagogical revolution stands PBL Works, a comprehensive resource hub empowering educators to harness the full potential of PBL in their classrooms.

Understanding the Essence of Problem-Based Learning

At its core, Problem-Based Learning is an instructional methodology that presents learners with real-world challenges, prompting them to explore solutions through investigation, collaboration, and reflection. Unlike conventional teaching methods, PBL shifts the focus from the teacher as the sole disseminator of knowledge to students as active participants in their own learning journey. By grappling with open-ended problems, students not only deepen their understanding of content but also develop invaluable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and perseverance.

The Role of PBL Works in Transforming Education

PBL Works, formerly known as the Buck Institute for Education (BIE), has been at the forefront of the PBL movement for over three decades. PBL Works offers a wealth of resources, professional development opportunities, and research-backed strategies to support educators in implementing effective PBL practices. From curated project ideas to in-depth training workshops, PBL Works equips teachers with the tools and knowledge needed to foster engaging, student-centered learning environments.

Key Components of PBL Works

1. Project Library: PBL Works provides access to a diverse array of project ideas spanning various grade levels, subjects, and themes. Educators can browse through an extensive collection of projects or customize their own to suit the unique needs and interests of their students.

2. Professional Development: Recognizing the importance of ongoing teacher growth, PBL Works offers professional development workshops, webinars, and coaching services. These opportunities empower educators to refine their PBL skills, collaborate with peers, and stay abreast of emerging best practices.

3. Research and Resources: PBL Works synthesizes the latest research findings and educational trends into actionable resources for educators. Whether it's articles, videos, or downloadable templates, teachers can access a wealth of supportive materials to enhance their PBL implementations.

4. Community Support: Beyond resources and training, PBL Works fosters a vibrant community of educators passionate about PBL. Through online forums, social media groups, and networking events, teachers can connect with like-minded peers, share insights, and seek advice on navigating the complexities of PBL.

Unlocking the Potential of PBL in Your Classroom

Integrating Problem-Based Learning into your classroom is not just about adopting a new instructional approach; it's about cultivating a culture of inquiry, collaboration, and lifelong learning. With the guidance and support of PBL Works, educators can embark on this transformative journey with confidence, knowing that they have the tools and expertise needed to empower their students to thrive in the 21st century.

As you embrace the principles of PBL, remember that the journey is as important as the destination. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the successes, and never lose sight of the profound impact you have on shaping the future leaders, innovators, and problem solvers of tomorrow.

Conclusion

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and complex global challenges, traditional educational paradigms no longer suffice. Problem-Based Learning, fueled by the resources and expertise of PBL Works, offers a compelling alternative—one that empowers students to not only acquire knowledge but also to apply it meaningfully in the world around them. As educators, let us seize this opportunity to ignite curiosity, inspire collaboration, and cultivate the next generation of lifelong learners through the transformative power of PBL. IF you would like support, please consider signing up for my virtual PD offering in June that will focus on developing PBL’s for your classroom using the PBLworks resources. For more information, send me an email at chad.miller@ovesc.org.

Engaging Students Through Authentic Problem-Based Learning with Community Partners

 The shift towards experiential and community-based learning approaches has gained significant traction. Authentic Problem-Based Learning (PBL) stands out as a powerful methodology that not only equips students with essential academic skills but also nurtures their ability to tackle real-world challenges. One particularly effective strategy within authentic PBL is the integration of community partners, which brings a wealth of benefits to both students and the broader community. Let's delve into the transformative potential of authentic PBL with community partnerships.

Building Meaningful Connections

Authentic PBL with community partners fosters meaningful connections between the classroom and the real world. By collaborating with local organizations, businesses, or civic groups, students gain firsthand exposure to authentic problems and challenges faced by their communities. Whether it's addressing environmental concerns, supporting underserved populations, or innovating solutions for local businesses, students are immersed in contexts that transcend textbook learning, making their education relevant and impactful.

Real-World Relevance

One of the hallmark features of authentic PBL with community partners is its emphasis on real-world relevance. Instead of hypothetical scenarios or contrived problems, students are presented with authentic challenges that have tangible implications for their communities. This not only enhances student motivation and engagement but also instills a sense of purpose and responsibility. Students see the direct impact of their work, which fuels their intrinsic motivation and fosters a deeper commitment to learning.

Bridging Theory and Practice

Authentic PBL with community partners bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world contexts. Whether it's applying mathematical principles to analyze community data, leveraging scientific inquiry to address environmental issues, or utilizing design thinking to prototype solutions, students gain a deeper understanding of academic content by seeing its relevance and application in authentic settings. This experiential learning approach promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing students for success in both academic and professional spheres.

Cultivating 21st-Century Skills

Beyond academic knowledge, authentic PBL with community partners cultivates a range of 21st-century skills essential for success in today's interconnected world. Collaboration, communication, creativity, and resilience are just a few examples of skills honed through authentic PBL experiences. By working collaboratively with community partners, students learn to navigate diverse perspectives, communicate effectively across stakeholders, think creatively to generate innovative solutions, and persevere in the face of challenges. These skills are not only vital for academic success but also for thriving in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Empowering Civic Engagement

Authentic PBL with community partners empowers students to become active agents of change in their communities. By engaging with real-world problems and collaborating with local stakeholders, students develop a sense of agency and civic responsibility. They see themselves not just as passive learners but as active contributors to the betterment of society. Through their PBL projects, students have the opportunity to make tangible, positive impacts on their communities, fostering a sense of pride, ownership, and civic engagement that extends beyond the classroom walls.

In Ohio, with our various graduation pathways to graduation, this is the perfect opportunity to implement Leadership Excellence credential. Leadership Excellence is a credential that students can earn and it applies to the majority of graduation seals/programs. While there is traditional coursework, students also have to demonstrate leadership skills by leading a team applying the skills from Leadership Excellence. This could be facilitated by allowing students to plan a service learning project that possibly culminates with a service learning day towards the end of the year to continue to grow community partnerships and promote to students to give back to the community.

Conclusion

Authentic Problem-Based Learning with community partners holds immense promise for transforming education and empowering students to become engaged, responsible citizens of the world. By integrating real-world problems, fostering meaningful connections with community partners, and cultivating essential skills, authentic PBL prepares students to navigate the complexities of the 21st century with confidence and purpose. As educators, stakeholders, and community members, let us embrace the transformative potential of authentic PBL with community partnerships, shaping a future where education is not just a means to an end but a powerful catalyst for positive change.

Start small, scale fast and develop the partnerships that not only support your students but also support your community. It will be a Win/Win for everyone!

Empowering Education: Assessment Capable Learners

In the realm of education, fostering student empowerment is akin to planting seeds of progress that burgeon into flourishing intellects. One crucial aspect of this empowerment lies in developing Assessment Capable Learners (ACLs) – a concept championed by renowned education researcher John Hattie. In this blog post, we will discuss what it means to be an ACL and how it revolutionizes the learning landscape. As we continue to work on transforming personalized learning to meet the needs of our learners, to engage our learners in their educational experience, an Assessment Capable Learner is at the center of school transformation.

Understanding Assessment Capable Learners

At its core, the notion of Assessment Capable Learners revolves around students who actively engage in their learning journey. According to Hattie, these learners possess a profound awareness of their own learning process. They're not merely recipients of knowledge but proactive participants, equipped with the skills to assess their progress, set meaningful goals, and comprehend the criteria for success.

The Pillars of ACLs

1. Self-Awareness: Assessment Capable Learners possess a keen sense of self-awareness regarding their learning. They understand their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This awareness serves as a compass, guiding them through their educational voyage.

2. Goal-Setting: Setting goals is more than a checkbox exercise for ACLs; it's a strategic endeavor. They craft goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). These goals serve as beacons, illuminating the path towards academic excellence.

3. Metacognition: ACLs are adept at metacognition – the ability to reflect on and regulate one's own thinking. They monitor their comprehension, evaluate their strategies, and make necessary adjustments to optimize learning outcomes.

4. Ownership: Perhaps the most transformative aspect of ACLs is their ownership of learning. They don't wait for instruction; they seize it. From selecting learning resources to charting study schedules, they take the reins of their education, steering it towards success.

The Impact of ACLs

The implications of nurturing Assessment Capable Learners extend far beyond individual classrooms. When students become active participants in their learning process, the entire educational landscape undergoes a paradigm shift:

• Improved Academic Performance: ACLs consistently demonstrate enhanced academic performance. By actively monitoring their progress and adapting their strategies, they transcend mediocrity, setting new standards of excellence.

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• Enhanced Student Well-Being: The empowerment that comes with being an ACL fosters a sense of competence and autonomy among students. This, in turn, contributes to improved well-being and self-esteem.

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• Cultivation of Lifelong Learners: By instilling the values of self-regulation and goal-directed learning, the ACL approach nurtures lifelong learners – individuals who approach every challenge as an opportunity for growth.

Implementing ACL Strategies in Education

Integrating ACL strategies into educational practices requires a concerted effort from educators, administrators, and policymakers. Here are some key strategies:

• Explicit Instruction: Educators must explicitly teach students the skills of self-assessment, goal-setting, and metacognition. Providing clear criteria for success empowers students to take ownership of their learning.

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• Feedback and Reflection: Regular feedback and opportunities for reflection enable students to gauge their progress and make informed decisions about their learning trajectory. It is critical to again model this for our learners.

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• Fostering a Growth Mindset: Cultivating a growth mindset – the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and effort – is essential for nurturing ACLs. Encouraging resilience in the face of challenges fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

System thinking and ACL: In terms of growing a ACL, there are some other considerations to consider. As a system, does your current grading system support an Assessment Capable Learner? Do you have a system that is based on Mastery Grading where students can receive the feedback on their pathway to learning the standards. If a student is receiving a percentage grade, what does that tell a learner about what they need to improve on. Long term, a building or school system needs to address their grading practices. When you transform your grading system and moving away from percentages and letter grades and increase feedback on the learning process, you can engage learners in the process and the process of learning becomes about growth rather than a letter grade.

Conclusion

Assessment Capable Learners emerge as vibrant threads, weaving together the fabric of academic excellence and empowerment. As we strive to cultivate the next generation of leaders, innovators, and thinkers, let us not underestimate the power of Assessment Capable Learners to shape a brighter tomorrow.

Designing Career Pathways to Meet the Needs of our Learners...Flip the SCRIPT!

Dear School Leaders,

In the fast-paced world of education, where the needs of learners are constantly evolving, it's time to challenge the status quo and rethink the way we design career pathways. The traditional model of education leading to a linear career trajectory is no longer sufficient to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of today's learners. It's time to flip the script and adopt a more dynamic and learner-centric approach to career development.

As school leaders, you are at the forefront of shaping the educational experiences of students. You have the power to influence curriculum design, pedagogical approaches, and support systems that can have a profound impact on the future trajectory of learners. Therefore, it's imperative that you embrace this opportunity to reimagine career pathways in a way that prioritizes the needs, interests, and strengths of each individual student.

So, what does it mean to flip the script on career pathways? It means moving away from the one-size-fits-all approach and embracing a more personalized and flexible approach to education and career development. Here are some key considerations for designing career pathways that truly meet the needs of learners:

1. Embrace Personalization: Recognize that every student is unique, with their own set of talents, interests, and aspirations. Instead of prescribing a fixed path, provide opportunities for students to explore their passions, strengths, and career interests. Offer personalized guidance, mentorship, and resources to help students chart their own course.

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3. Integrate Real-World Experiences: Break down the barriers between the classroom and the workplace by integrating real-world experiences into the curriculum. Encourage internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and project-based learning opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills relevant to their future careers.

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5. Foster a Growth Mindset: Cultivate a culture of continuous learning and growth within your school community. Encourage students to embrace challenges, learn from failure, and persist in the face of obstacles. Provide support and resources to help students develop essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability.

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7. Harness the Power of Technology: Leverage technology to expand access to learning resources, facilitate personalized learning experiences, and connect students with mentors and experts in their fields of interest. Embrace online learning platforms, digital tools, and virtual reality experiences to create immersive and engaging learning opportunities.

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9. Promote Equity and Inclusion: Ensure that career pathways are accessible to all students, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances. Address systemic barriers and inequities that may hinder certain groups of students from accessing opportunities for career exploration and advancement. Provide targeted support and resources to underserved populations to ensure that all students have the opportunity to pursue their dreams.

By flipping the script on career pathways, you have the opportunity to create a more equitable, inclusive, and empowering educational experience for all students. Embrace the challenge of reimagining traditional models of education and career development to better meet the needs of today's learners. Together, let's design career pathways that empower students to pursue their passions, achieve their goals, and thrive in an ever-changing world.

The script is yours to flip – so seize the opportunity and lead the way towards a brighter future for all students.

Sincerely, #Status Quo Disruptor