Driving meaningful change means driving a meaningful plan. The 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) created by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim Huling, is a simple plan for achieving your most important goals amid the daily “whirlwind.”
 

To create significant change, we must involve: 

1. Focusing on the wildly important goal.

2. Acting on the lead measures.

3. Keeping a compelling scoreboard.

4. Creating a cadence of accountability.

​

This plan, as well as the Influencer Strategy, will play an important role as I implement my innovation plan, Empower: Blended Learning Leadership Program. As an Instructional Technology Specialist, I live in the whirlwind, constantly fixing unexpected problems. While the whirlwind can become overwhelming, the 4DX model gives practical tools to help manage our problems and stay focused on the end goal.  

 

The 4 Disciplines of Execution tells us that “to achieve a goal, you have never achieved before, you must start doing things you have never done before” (McChesney et. al., 2016). To effectively implement the Empower Program, I recognize the need to take actions I've never taken before. Throughout this journey, communication, accountability, and discipline will all remain a priority as I begin to create this transformative change within my district. 

​

​

​

Throughout the transformative journey of the Empower Program, its success greatly depends on the implementation of the five stages of change. Stage 1 is leadership clarity. In this stage, it is important for district leaders understand the importance and the objectives of the Empower Program. Furthermore, it's essential to sustain this vision as teachers come on board, illustrating how it translates into teaching methodologies and learning outcomes.

 

Once clarity has been established, Stage 2 of launching is when the team is at the starting line! A kickoff event, unveiling the scoreboard, and setting lead measures are necessary to gain momentum and excitement for the Empower Program. 

 

As Stage 3 unfolds, teachers within the Empower Program begin to adopt new practices and feel increasingly engaged in their instructional approaches. This is why fostering team alignment, providing encouragement, and offering feedback are pivotal components. 

 

As teachers move through the Empower Program and begin to gain experience with blended learning, Stage 4 focuses on refining and optimizing their approaches. Regular meetings, problem-solving sessions, and celebrating progress all allow teachers to continue their path toward the WIG and begin producing lessons that truly make a difference. 

 

Stage 5 is the most exciting to me. Not only will teachers 100% reach their goal of obtaining a student-centered, blended learning classroom, but they also internalize these practices, fostering a culture of exceptional execution. By following the 5 stages of change of the 4DX model, I am confident in driving the necessary changes needed for innovation and success within the Empower Program.