Lauri hit the nail on the head when she said, “I am not sure where you start but I think that you have to try to gain some allies early on in your project.” Since the beginning of the class, I have kept in close contact with several teachers on my campus. They have been instrumental in providing ideas and support of my action research project. But these few teachers who are interested in the project, will they be the consensus? The fact that I’m willing to design and lead the project has been very favorable to many. Everyone wants a solution, not everyone wants to do the leg work.
Another key comment Lauri made was, “…try to convince the principal that your ideas would have a positive impact on the campus. If you start with anyone else you might risk alienating him …” Our campus has been riding on a roller coaster for the past five years with a different Principal each year. The exception being that this year, a former Principal will be returning from a sabbatical to stay! Today was the first opportunity to visit with him for a total of10 minutes. I felt like a pitcher, pitching a fast ball. Basically I told him about my EDLD 5301 Research class and the project I was working on. When collaborating with my coworkers and site supervisors for ideas for my action plan project, I would “CC” the emails to my Principal. Though we have not had a chance to visit, I have kept him in the loop each step of the way. He seemed receptive and promised that it would be discussed at the Lead Team meeting. He did mention that one of my coworkers has been talking about the issues of homework and would like something done this year. I offered to speak to the Lead Team to share my ideas and that I would head up the project. He did say that he would work with me if the project did not pan out. Since being away for a year, he wanted to hear concerns the Lead Teacher's had and plan accordingly. If homework issues were loudly voiced, then I could proceed with my action plan.
What I admire about my Principal is his eagerness to support his teachers, students, and parents. He listens to our concerns and tries his best to come up with a solution. He is young and has a passion for education. We like to say he has "heart!"
Arnold, L. (2010, August 8). I can foresee three challenges in implementing my action plan research.
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Will you please provide feedback on my Action Research Plan. My blog is found at:
ReplyDeletehttp://msmorales-actionresearchanalysis.blogspot.com/
So Exciting! I am so glad for you that an "old" principal is returning and that he seems receptive to your ideas. I think it is wise for you to head up the research, you are right few are willing to do the work--but they are willing to complain about the issues. Good Luck. I will also go post on your research.
ReplyDeleteI would appreciate it if you could go look at my plan as well!
http://gr8teachn.blogspot.com
My district is having the same issues. I have had three different principals in the pass three years. I looked over your plan and I'm on the :same sheet of music". My format is basically the same and I would not make any changes as I see it.
ReplyDelete