2017 VSBA Annual Convention

Many educators like to use the term “innovation” when describing the work in their own classrooms, schools, or school divisions. In Bedford County Public Schools, we have envisioned a future where our learners: Make informed decisions about how, where, and when to learn; Progress academically regardless of how, where, or when learning occurred; Participate in community-based projects and internships; Earn college and workplace credentials as a regular part of their school experience; Utilize the latest innovations and technological advances to learn at school, at home, and in the community. As a community, we are committed to this vision, and we have developed a number of specific strategies and action plans to make this vision a reality. However, even the best designed innovation strategies need a supportive leadership culture in order to thrive and reach their full potential. As we have begun to empower our learners for future success by redesigning the industrial-age school model, we are very cognizant of how our traditional leadership structures may actually be impeding the innovation that we all envision.During this presentation, you will hear a little bit about the process of personalized learning as it exists in our school division today, as well as our vision for the future. You will also hear how school board members, superintendents, and other leaders can actively empower teachers and other school-based staff to design andimplement innovative practices for learners.