“Back to the drawing board.”
This was the answer I received from the deputy when inquiring about the current numeracy initiative. The deputy had done a lot of work putting together a numeracy program with references and timeframes for each year level. It was a work of art.
However, after six months of consultation and 6 months of implementation, the teachers didn’t have the buy in to action the program to the letter. Which came out as several comments asking to abandon the current program and start something new.
The deputy did return to the drawing board and investigated several numeracy programs ready to parade in front of staff for their approval. Unfortunately, the staff never got to see the suite of alternatives.
After a courageous conversation with the deputy, we decided that I would speak with the Team Leaders and investigate the barriers and opportunities to enhance program ownership thus leading to implementation.
During the session, the leaders and I, listed the barriers and the actions required to move forward.
Barriers – Lack of clarity and consistency. Too much content per week. No accountability.
Actions – Implementation plan. Year level overview. Learning Area templates. Key Performance Indicators.
Then came the timeframe for implementation including the conversations that were required to bring clarity, consistency and accountability during collaboration time. And to finish the session we came to my favourite part, FIDELITY.
To what standard are we going to implement the program?
How will we know action is occurring?
The FIDELITY Plan was created for 2025, mapping out when time is allocated to specific activities, led by Team Leaders in their collaboration groups. The discussion was focused on what teaching looks like for warmups, word walls, and plenary. This is the standard. Sharing and observing is encouraged. Action is happening.
Already the leaders have indicated their teams are more comfortable moving forward with the numeracy program.
There is ownership led by Courageous Leaders in a Courageous Culture.
I have no doubt the numeracy results will move north not due to a new program, but one that is done with FIDELITY and ownership.
How are you ensuring FIDELITY?
Are you utilising your Team Leaders?
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