Subject: Systems thinking in K-12 schools

Posted by Jay Goldman on 10/29/2004

Message:

Those interested in K-12 schooling might like to read some of the major articles contained in the November 2004 issue of The School Administrator, a monthly magazine for superintendents across the nation. The theme is “rethinking systems.”



Full text of all articles (lineup posted below) can be accessed on the magazine’s web site (www.aasa.org/publications/SA). The November issue, mailed early this week, was posted to the web today. Anyone wishing to comment, even critically, in response to any of the pieces is welcome to send a letter to the editor. Feedback always welcome.



Jay P. Goldman

Editor, The School Administrator

jgoldman@aasa.org





November 2004 Lineup of The School Administrator:



Testing ‘What If?’ Scenarios

By Ralph A. Brauer
It’s a tantalizing prospect: What if as school system decision maker you could try out an initiative before putting it in place? A process known as system dynamics simulates the possible effects. Also: Modeling may be the answer; and additional resources.


Suspending the Elephant Over the Table

By Nelda Cambron-McCabe and Luvern L. Cunningham
Do superintendents enjoy the luxury of a time-consuming systems approach to fix problems? Can they afford to acknowledge they don't have all the answers—and sometimes aren’t sure about the questions? A new book suggests concepts of systems change can improve learning while making the job doable.


Heifetz on Public Leadership

By Amelia Newcomb
The work of Ron Heifetz, co-founder of the Center on Public Leadership at Harvard, recognizes the demands of the superintendency and the tools it offers for moving forward. An interview that covers his views on bridging gaps, empowering others and the defensive nature of superintendents. Also: Heifetz asks what true leadership is; and a superintendent reflects on Heifetz’s notion of ‘I, Superintendent.’


Think Like Peter Senge

By William G. O’Callaghan Jr.
An authority on learning organizations has an explanation for why some well-intended solutions to problems actually make matters worse over the long term. School leaders can apply Peter Senge’s laws of systems thinking to shape behavior in ways that will advance the cause.


Coherent Governance

By Linda J. Dawson and Randy Quinn
Profiles of three school districts that are effectively creating a new relationship for school boards and their superintendents, defining roles for the board’s governance responsibility and the superintendent’s responsibility for students’ academic success and operational accountability.


Outside the Ropes

By Scott LaFee
How are the newest entrants to the superintendency who’ve spent their previous work lives in business and the military learning about K-12 system leadership? Four superintendents from nontraditional backgrounds share their answers. Also: Current roster of superintendents from nontraditional fields.

Follow Ups:

Systems thinking in K-12 schools - Lees Stuntz 10/31/2004