The Importance of Planning in Innovation.

The Importance of Planning in Innovation.

While budgeting for the FY22-23 school year, a school division added additional positions they would need to support the concept of revitalizing their alternative education division. Before the board could accept the revitalization recommendation, a strategic plan was requested.

Immediately, the division formed a committee consisting of former & current alternative education staff, administrators, executive leaders, and community resources.

One of the program’s goals was to address the social and emotional needs of the students. The committee understood their strengths: educating to the learning standards, providing transportation, meals, etc. But to fully process how they could meet the needs of the students, a SWOT analysis was completed. After assessing, they realized they lacked the staff, time, and training to support the social and emotional needs of the students fully. Through community partnerships, the alternative education division is equipped to implement each of its program goals. This was achievable because of planning.

Use your strengths to overcome your weaknesses. Assessing your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats alone can be limiting. If you consider revitalizing a program or business, I encourage planning and completing a SWOT Analysis. If you value the process of shared thinking, I would love to work with you.