Years two and three of the game just flew by! I am continued to be amazed that even with this game all of the decisions that a school leader must make. The "game" based on research of reality was very eye opening. I found myself very frustrated with the "sinkers" of the staff. The ones who just did not want to move and would continue to hinder progress. Further, I found that just as in real life, the Super wants and needs to be included in all discussions and plans. By excluding that person on even one steps puts your progress back many many steps.
I also found myself as the game was played comparing the board and players with my coworkers and staff. It is interesting how it can really be as simple as a few sinkers that stand out. I also found that the social network knowledge of a staff can be so instrumental to leading. Knowing who has influence over who and whose word can be trusted is a huge asset to any leader. Often as is the case the secretary is a leader unintentionally. They have all of the gossip and everyone, almost everyday, talks with them. They can influence even if it is unintentional.
The idea behind this game and the way it is played is an amazing teaching tool. It really shows what it takes to be a leader of change while having consequences for actions that thankfully do not have consequences on the students. It is a great way to learn and is safe for all parties. I would have like to have more discussion with the moderator of the game to learn about my decisions and why they were not "a great choice." But at the same time, in the real world--I would not be afforded that courtesy.
Back to my big project of a moment--I have spent the past two weeks teaching how to use the technology for my assessments and have given two so far. I did see in the first week a slight difference in paper-based assessment to tech. based. This week may be a bit different. The content of the assessment was a bit more challenging as well though. Off to grade!
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