Message Board

This past Wednesday, we had a terrific Leadership Academy seminar at the Father Ryan Arts Center. As the group reflected on their action plans, they looked at the following questions with the corresponding lessons learned:

1. How was the plan modified – describe why?
a. Known need
b. Develop readiness
c. Develop a model (really excited teacher who moved forward without money)
d. Capitalize on passion
e. Willing to adjust
f. ‘External’ opinion
g. Garner support
h. Find ‘common’ ground
i. Align goals
j. Value of personal investment and lifelong learning
k. Adjust and monitor
2. What difficult person or unexpected ally did you encounter who had an impact on your work?
a. Don’t give up on people
b. Develop networks
c. Gather and use data
d. Identify and collect resources
e. Make your agenda their agenda
3. What change(s) have you seen in your organization, classroom, school or district that you can attribute to the work on your plan?
a. Timing is ‘everything’
b. Do what you can when you can
c. Look for the entry point
d. Be strategic
e. Share the work
f. Share the glory
g. Build the team
h. Success breeds success
i. Be diligent, be resilient

As you reflect on your action plan, or your practice, what other lessons learned do you have? Please share any specific stories you have, salient points that might benefit others, or revelations that you think will impact your practice moving forward.

I like the 'planting a seed' philosophy. My action plan developed from a seed planted about two years ago. Many liked the idea and it was discussed somewhat but when I was ready to start planning the project, I already had a great number supporting my ideas. This little seed had time to grow and take root!