As an elementary school teacher, I am deeply motivated by my mission, hence the creation of “What’s My Why?” inspired by Simon Sinek’s concept. I believe that teachers have the opportunity to help students discover their potential and develop a sense of “I can do.” My mission is to prepare students to absorb information and actively participate in their development. By integrating e-portfolios focused on reading comprehension into my teaching practice, I aim to provide students with an engaging and interactive platform to enhance their learning experience. This approach is in perfect alignment with Cleveland ISD’s mission to help students overcome challenges and achieve their educational goals, helping them develop confidence and acquire essential skills for their future.
To implement my Innovation Proposal effectively, I will utilize the strategies outlined in “Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change” by Grenny et al. (2013). My Influencer Strategy involves addressing motivation and capability across three levels: personal, social, and structural. I will focus on motivating and equipping teachers and students through targeted actions such as training and curricular integration of ePortfolios. I plan to inspire students to actively engage in learning, develop analytical and comprehension skills, and express their creativity through ePortfolios. Progress measures and a recognition system will help achieve these objectives.
To enhance students’ reading comprehension skills through ePortfolios, I will implement the 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) framework described by Covey, McChesney, and Huling (2012). The core of my approach, as outlined in “Installing 4DX in Your Organization,” will focus on setting a Wildly Important Goal (WIG) and structuring efforts to achieve it. I will concentrate on essential goals, act on lead measures, maintain a visible progress scoreboard, and create a rhythm of accountability through weekly meetings. I will also integrate the 4 Disciplines with the 5 Stages of Change to ensure a sustainable and effective transformation in the classroom.
To lead my Innovation Proposal effectively, I will apply the techniques from “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When the Stakes Are High” by Patterson et al. (2012). Developing skills in self-awareness and self-control, I will manage difficult conversations, foster empathy and understanding, and make values-based decisions. I will ensure a safe discussion environment, explore mutual purposes, and constructively address conflicts. These skills are crucial for handling challenges and ensuring the successful implementation of my innovation plan.
This organizational change strategy will not only enable effective implementation of the plan. Still, it will also contribute to the growth and success of each student, reflecting our shared commitment to educational excellence.
References:
Grenny, J., Patterson, K., Maxfield, D., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2013). Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change. McGraw-Hill Education.
Covey, S. R., McChesney, C., & Huling, D. (2012). The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals. Free Press.
Patterson, K., Grenny, J., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2012). Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High. McGraw-Hill Education.
Sinek, S. (2009). Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action. Penguin Group.