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the survival guide for iowa school administrators Boxes, design only
ADMINISTRATOR AS A CHANGE LEADER
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Guidelines for Helping Teachers to Change

Awareness Phase to New Insights Phase to Resistance Phase
  1. Discuss feelings of loss and the difficulties in "letting go" of familiar programs and practices.
  2. Become aware of the process of transformation and identify each phase individuals are experiencing.
  3. Help individuals understand the grieving process they must go through to let go and go on with new methods and programs.
  4. Identify unmet needs (needs inventories) and help individuals plan specific ways they can meet their needs so growth can take place.
  5. Develop support groups that are problem solving, action-oriented, non-judgmental.
  6. Provide stress management education rather than "quick fix" methods.
  7. Provide assistance for individuals who are most resistant to change.
  8. Focus on the positive benefits of the new project for each person.
Readiness for Change Phase to Adjustment Phase
  1. Work with support groups to develop an open, supportive environment where transformations can take place.
  2. Plan sessions to help individuals learn about the transformations expected of them.
  3. Focus on the strengths, skills, and interests of each person in the project.
  4. Encourage all involved to share their ideas and talents.
  5. Help individuals identify the personal rewards for them.
  6. Focus on alternative ways to approach problems and issues.
  7. Plan ways individuals can expand their skills in support of self-transformation.
  8. Work together to plan a new set of expectations.
  9. Map out a personal development plan to assist individuals in learning new strategies for coping with the transformations.
New Commitment Phase to Continuation Phase
  1. Discuss positive aspects of the project for the individuals and the group.
  2. Plan ways individuals can use their talents to help others in the project.
  3. Develop action groups to plan new programs, materials, and curriculum that is exciting and enhancing for everyone.
  4. Provide intellectually stimulating activities.
  5. Talk about ways to redefine roles.
  6. Continue support groups. Form new interest support groups for those interested.
  7. Talk about individuals' excitement for the transformations being made and that will be made.
  8. Give extra support to those who need it.
  9. Focus on successes and achievements.
  10. Plan ways to build resilience through self-empowerment, positive mind set, and creativity.
  11. Keep communication open and encouraging.
  12. Work to build continued commitment (Gold & Roth, 1999, pp. 63-64).


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