Introduction
Leadership is fundamental to successful integration and cooperation in work, school, and other environments. As a new assistant principal, I face many obstacles and use my leadership skills to uphold the principal’s vision and standards. Consequently, it is essential to focus on the vision and the issue, such as a lack of collaboration, and seek solutions by encouraging change.
Identifying a Unique Leadership Problem
One potential problem I am considering studying as the focus of my leadership practicum project is a lack of team-building and collaboration between teachers. Many educators at my school work in isolation, which disrupts the dynamics. As a result, numerous opportunities for cooperation and sharing of best practices are missed.
The Need for Change and Its Importance
The status quo of isolated teachers is not good enough, and the situation must be changed. Encouraging collaboration and team-building is vital because it increases the chances for achievement (Kotter & Cohen, 2002). Moreover, such an environment will promote professional growth and a better learning process.
Anticipated Challenges in Addressing the Problem
One significant issue I might face when encouraging change is teacher resistance. Many educators might be reluctant to change their status quo, and it might be necessary to take time and effort to explain the benefits of collaboration and teamwork.
Easiest Kotter Step to Implement
Out of the eight steps of Kotter’s model, I expect the first step to be the easiest. The first step of the framework involves creating urgency (Kotter, 2012). I will create a sense of urgency by explaining the importance of teamwork and collaboration, and its effects on achievement and learning.
Most Difficult Kotter Step to Implement
The sixth step of the model is the most difficult one. Kotter’s model involves making short-term wins (Kotter, 2012). It might be challenging to create short-term wins due to the time required to see changes.
Conclusion
Hence, exploring solutions by promoting change while concentrating on the problem, such as a lack of teamwork, is crucial. The absence of teacher collaboration and teamwork is one potential issue I am thinking about researching for my leadership practicum project. The current state of isolated instructors must change because it is unsustainable. I might encounter instructors’ resistance to change as a serious challenge.
References
Kotter, J. P. (2012). Leading change. Harvard Business Review Press.
Kotter, J. P., & Cohen, D. S. (2002). The heart of change: Real-life stories of how people change their organizations. Harvard Business Review Press.