Full Description
"Michael Barber outlines the steps that will enable courageous education leaders around the country to execute their plans and bridge the gap between hope and reality."
—Joel Klein, Chancellor
New York City Department of Education
"No one knows system reform better than Sir Michael Barber. His delivery contains bold, inspiring, crystal clear ideas that are never more timely than today. A must-read for reformers at all levels of the system."
—Michael Fullan, Professor Emeritus
University of Toronto Ontario Institute for Studies in Education
A step-by-step approach to delivering results
Michael Barber, former chief advisor on delivery to British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and his colleagues Andy Moffit and Paul Kihn thoroughly describe Barber's proven reform delivery processes in this practical field guide. The timing is ideal, as Barack Obama's administration prioritizes education reform. Citing education reform case studies from more than 20 countries, the authors assert that most previous reforms were unsuccessful due to failed implementation. This book focuses on how to accomplish meaningful results, including:
Significant and ongoing education reform
Excellence and equity across public education
Students who are prepared to lead America's future
The authors illustrate a field-tested program that ensures reform is achieved in the most profound sense, with students able to see, feel, and reap the benefits of a high-quality education.
Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments
About the Authors
How to Read This Field Guide
Executive Summary
1. Develop a Foundation for Delivery
1A. Define Your Aspiration
1B. Review the Current State of Delivery
1C. Build the Delivery Unit
1D. Establish a Guiding Coalition
2. Understand the Delivery Challenge
2A. Evaluate Past and Present Performance
2B. Understand Drivers of Performance and Related System Activities
3. Plan for Delivery
3A. Determine Your Reform Strategy
3B. Set Targets and Trajectories
3C. Produce Delivery Plans
4. Drive Delivery
4A. Establish Routines to Drive and Monitor Performance
4B. Solve Problems Early and Rigorously
4C. Sustain and Continually Build Momentum
5. Create an Irreversible Delivery Culture
5A. Build System Capacity All the Time
5B. Communicate the Delivery Message
5C. Unleash the "Alchemy of Relationships"
Frequently Asked Questions
Glossary
Appendix A1 Delivery Capacity Review Rubric
Appendix A2 Assessment Framework Used by the Prime Minister's Delivery Unit
References
Index
