People throughout the world believe they have brilliant ideas. Regrettably, no matter how good such ideas are, they will never be implemented if no one else is aware. Educational leaders are fortunate in that they have the opportunity to convey their ideas and ask others to believe in their ideas. Educational leaders can express their ideas and break them down into components that others can understand and carry out over time.

A Step by Step Process

Let us consider the process from the perspective of a new superintendent trying to develop a strategy for his new district. Spending the time to build a lofty idea that is feasible is the first step. Ensure that you create a strategic policy that outlines how you will achieve your goals. The strategy should next be shared with a few of your most reliable advisors. Request that they read it thoroughly and take notes. Arrange a meeting to talk about their complaints and any recommendations they may have.

The third stage is to present the strategy to your whole leadership team and ask them to evaluate it as you did with your closest aides. I refer to your deputy and assistant superintendents, other central office personnel and the entire school board when I say “complete leadership team.” The fourth stage is to discuss it with each school’s principals and assistant principals and get their comments. The fifth stage is to show it to your fiercest critics, your teachers. The sixth stage is to bring it to the school board and inform them that you have most of the district’s support. They have read the document before, but they have not seen the adjustments made in response to the criticism you got from teachers and other educational leaders. As much as you have not made any significant changes, the school district is unlikely to object.

The district can organize a public meeting to gather comments from parents and the community once the school administration has authorized it. This information may help develop the final edition of your strategic plan. One more piece of advice. You must value the approach as much as the outcome, and you must remain devoted to your goal no matter what.