⏰ Slow down to go fast. 

Take a breath -- ask some key questions. 

• What problem does a Connected Classroom framework solve? 

• What are the obstacles to implementing this framework at a campus level?

• Is there any evidence that the framework will make change to instruction and academics -- and in how happy staff and students are?

• Who are our SEL or academic gurus already on campus? Within the district?

• What is the long-term vision for this on our campus?

🥜 Find allies 

Find the "first follower." - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fW8amMCVAJQ

• Where are the nuts?  :) 

🎯 Set precise goals 

 Express your dreams, but write them as actual goals too

Utilize SMART goals to help with internal and external accountability 

• Ex: Implement Genius Hour - By December 1st, 100 6th graders will score a 4 on a presentation rubric about a topic of their choice. 

• Add the plan 

• Work backwards from deadline 

  • Get commitment from teachers in August

  • By September, have the rubric

  • By October, kids make first pitch 

  • By November, kids refine their 

🚙 Anticipate the failures (and bumps and setbacks) 

 Build in extra time 

• Enjoy the little successes and adapt goals 

• Have the "Come at me bro" attitude

💌 Invite 

Don't tell, ask. 

• Ask "What is working for you in the current system?"

• Systems and structures

  • Use a learning menu  - offer some differentiated choices 

  • Voluntary pilot groups 

👍 Validate 

Not the same thing as agreeing

• Affirm that that thing is true for them. -- Reflect the content and acknowledge the emotion and communicate acceptance of this. 

• Requires a shift in perspective  (Behind every cynic is someone whose heart has been broken. -- Elena Aguilar, Onward Cultivating Emotional Response)

• Honor the loyal dissenter. 

👓 Be transparent

Share your journey -- especially the failures. 

• Increases accountability 

• easy to follow you -- see the process

🖐 Make meaningful connection with kind communication

Praise when needed and ask for collaboration. 

• Pull in the dissenters based on their strengths -- based on integrity.

🏋️‍♀️ Dig Deep

Work through the discomfort.  

• Encourage others who are getting ready to quit. 

• Jennifer Gonzales from Cult of Pedagogy 

• Several other change management processes :)