Happy bosses’ week to those of you who are in leadership positions! This week is a great time to reflect on the importance of leadership in 1:1 initiatives. When I think about all of the 1:1 districts I have worked with, some thoughts about leadership stand out in my mind.
- Leadership is the single most important factor in the success of a 1:1 program.…without a close second!
- Leadership isn’t always a person in a traditional leadership role. Some successful 1:1 schools have created leadership teams that have really been powerful!
- Although principals and other building level administrators don’t need to always take the lead, they must support the initiative. This includes a commitment to providing training and time for teachers to learn.
- Effective leaders develop at least a basic understanding on the ways that technology can be used in the classroom. They also model technology use with their staff.
When I write this blog, I generally hope to provide you, the reader, with ideas that may help move your 1:1 programs forward. After identifying the traits above, I am empathetic for those of you in schools with poor leadership. So what can you do to gather the support of your leadership team?
- Invite them into your room to demonstrate the great things you are doing.
- Ask to set-up or become involved with a 1:1 leadership team. Use the team as a place to discuss and implement training for teachers.
- Let others know about the great things you are doing such as board members and parents. Hopefully, they will push your school level leader to support your work.
- Ask to attend additional training.
- If denied, ask some more!
Without effective leadership, it is likely your 1:1 program will have very limited success. It will be like many other initiatives in education that are implemented inconsistently. The “pockets of greatness” may be present, but your school will not have systematic success.
Nick Sauers
