Expert Spotlight Mark A. Edwards and Michael Fullan
What inspired you to collaborate? Mark led Mooresville Graded School District’s (MGSD) technology transformation and based the district’s strategy on Michael’s research. It was a natural marriage for us to join forces to examine MGSD’s success from the joint perspective of practice and research. Moreover, there was very little in research or practice that provided a careful analysis of how a district could accomplish impressive systemwide learning in all of its schools while incorporating technology. We knew that the messages and lessons from MGSD were badly needed in the field, so we teamed up to identify what explained the success and what others could learn from it. What challenges will The Power of Unstoppable Momentum help leaders solve? If you look around the country, you will find a mishmash of how districts are using technology. All districts are purchasing technology, but very few have a clear idea about how they should use and assess it. Superintendents were telling us that
there was little practical guidance available to them in a field where they knew there would be rapid innovation and expanding demands.
We wrote the book to explain what success looks like and how to have an impact on learning across the district.” Systemic change is incredibly tough work, and the fusion of pedagogy, digital resources, and cultural coherence requires deep understanding. We wrote the book to explain what success looks like and how to have an impact on learning across the district. We also share practical application and examples from MGSD and other districts that illuminate the journey for school leaders.
What makes The Power of Unstoppable Momentum unique? Frankly, very few districtwide successes have been accomplished. Consequently, there is little guidance available for district leaders and school boards. Our book is unique because it captures how to achieve success over time. The book’s account of longitudinal research, as well as longitudinal practical application for effectiveness, provides a powerful “combo power drive” for readers and leaders. What are the next steps in your work? Our immediate next step is to help districts engage in their own successful journeys. The work we describe is in its infancy, so there will be plenty more innovations and new developments. We are inspired to keep learning, growing, and sharing because we know that this field is incredibly important for society and will develop rapidly. We want to be part of this dynamic evolution and learn from it.
Order your copy of The Power of Unstoppable Momentum today.
78CCA.indb 125
8/11/17 10:25 AM