Tools in my pocket

Email… Class Dojo… Google Drive… Seesaw… Small Group… Greenscreen… Makerspace… Growth Mindset… Throughout my teaching career, I have learned about tools that have led me to be a successful teacher.  I know that I have had to change each year because I have a new set of students (with different personalities.) Change is hard, and it can be very uncomfortable.

---

These last five weeks have to lead me to four different tools that I can not only use to change my organization, but I can use them in my life, classroom, and personal conversations.

---

What drives people?  What gets me out of my bed in the morning?  It starts with why... For me, it is teaching my students.  Sinek (2009) tells us that the “why” causes leaders to inspire others to believe in their ideas.  After introducing the “why,” it is easier to tell others the “how” and the “what.

---

---

After thinking about the “why,” we need to think about how I will be influencing change so my teacher friends will get in line to be part of my innovation plan.  Grenny, Patterson, Maxfield, McMillan, & Switzler (2013) explains to be successful, you have to have three keys: focus and measure, vital behavior, and six sources of influences.  This helps us target our audience to get our ideas out.

---

---

Now comes the execution of the plan.  This is not for me, but it is now “Team Makerspace.”  I have to remember that I am not alone with this plan.  As a team, will focus on a WIG (like the “why”), act on the lead measure, create a compelling scoreboard and then create a cadence of accountability (with WIG sessions.)  We will remember that there will be a whirlwind out there, but we will try not to let it control us.

---

---

In our WIG sessions, I might start to become uncomfortable with some of the talks that we have.  I will be able to use the eight steps from the “Crucial Conversation” book. I will remember that even with opposing opinions, strong emotions, and high stakes, we can move the path to action. Instead of having a silent treatment, I will make a safe environment so the plan to have a makerspace room can continue.

---

---

 Change is hard, but with these tools in our pocket, we can be more successful.   

References
Grenny, J., Patterson, K., Maxfield, D., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2013). Influencer: The new science of leading change. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
McChesney, C., Covey, S. & Huling, J. (2012).  The 4 disciplines of execution. New York, NY: Franklin Covey Co.
Patterson, K., Grenny, J., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2012). Crucial Conversations: Tools for talking when stakes are high. New York, NY: McGraw Hill.
Sinek, S. (2009, September). Start with why: Simon Sinek TED talk. . Retrieved fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPYeCltXpxw