Adapted from Google for Education Transformation Center framework on school transformation.
As we embark on another school year of instability, school improvement plan is on the agenda of most school leaders. Bouncing back from the damage caused by COVID-19, many schools will find themselves in struggling positions to continue operation without cutting costs and implementing layoffs. For many schools, a complete restructuring process must be taken. This segment talks about seven areas, proposed by Google for Education Transformation Centers, that are critical to consider when tackling school change.
How To Use The Framework
First, school leaders of successful change begin with a strong, unifying Vision. If you notice your school is failing and your students disengaging, you should re-evaluate your vision, and use the planning steps and resources if it needs work.
Turning a failing school around requires a solid foundation – which in this case is the school vision.
Second, consider these areas that might need some restructuring: Learning, Culture, Professional Development, Technology, Funding & Sustainability, and Community Engagement. Are your students learning effectively? Do they have the essential technology that accelerates their learning progress? Does your school need extra funding to bounce back from the pandemic loss? When you ask yourself these questions, you can estimate which areas need more attention than others.
As you and your team set and execute your plan for transformation, keep in mind that change is often a gradual process.
You cannot execute school transformation in a matter of days, and you definitely should not push your staff to accelerate the process without careful evaluation.