LEAD Headlines & Features from Leader Weekly
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3/19/19 - Save the Date: LEAD Onboarding Launch
Principals Only
The LEAD Onboarding Launch for new principals and assistant principals hired for the 2019-20 school year will take place July 17-19 at the Lowry Conference Center. LEAD Onboarding is tailored to support new leaders who are either new to the district or new to their leadership roles. It is designed to support new leaders to be successful in their role by building emerging knowledge in subject areas that are critical to effective leadership at DPS. Stay tuned to future editions of Leader Weekly for more details.
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2/26/19 - Thrive Fellowship and Partnership Application Deadline Extended to March 8
All ILT Members
Thrive Fellowship Program is expanding to provide an opportunity for teacher leaders to broaden their impact and increase their leadership capabilities through two aligned cohorts working collaboratively -- the Leadership cohort and Leadership for Special Education cohort.
LEAD@dpsk12.org to nominate candidates. For additional information, access the program overview. Applications are due by midnight on March 8.
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1/22/19 - Schedule LEAD End-of-Year Conversations in February
All ILT Members
Your manager should schedule time with you to discuss your LEAD evaluation ratings in early to mid-February, prior to the Feb. 28 deadline. If your manager does not reach out to schedule time with you, please be proactive in requesting this meeting. All leaders should have submitted their LEAD Self-Evaluation in Whetstone by now. If you have not yet completed, please do so as soon as possible. Click here for instructions on how to enter this information in Whetstone. You may also use the LEAD Conversation Guide as a resource to prepare for these upcoming conversations.
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1/15/19 - The LEAD Body of Evidence Dashboard is Now Available
Principals Only
The LEAD Body of Evidence Dashboard is now available to support LEAD End-of-Year conversations with your ILT. The Body of Evidence Dashboard is designed to provide a summary of relevant and comparable school-level data aligned to the School Leadership Framework that can be used to inform LEAD evaluations. The dashboard aims to support data-driven decisions, but is not comprehensive nor prescriptive. Use the dashboard as a support document alongside the School Leadership Framework, LEAD Growth and Scoring Guidance, LEAD evaluation form and other applicable reports and data. All LEAD evaluations must be completed by Feb. 28. Click here for more information on timelines and to access resources.
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1/15/19 - Applications for the Learn to Lead Principal Residency Program Due Feb. 4
All ILT Members
The priority application deadline for Learn to Lead (L2L) Feb. 4. L2L is a principal residency program committed to developing strong leaders. L2L is designed for experienced assistant principals who are interested in strengthening and developing their knowledge and skills related to school leadership. Residents work alongside a principal to learn the intricacies of being a principal while receiving on-the-job training that allows improvement in their leadership practice. Residents work together as a cohort to learn through case studies, strengthen their leadership identity and build their LEAD Framework competencies. If you or someone you manage is ready to take the next step in their leadership journey, click here to learn more about the program and to start an application.
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1/8/19 - Thrive Fellowship and Partnership Applications Available Jan. 11
All ILT Members
Experienced Senior Team Leads (S/TLs) can apply for several exciting opportunities to increase their impact in 2019-20. Thrive is expanding to provide several opportunities for the strongest teacher leaders to deepen their instructional impact within their school or build the capacity of other teacher leaders in DPS. The Thrive Fellowship will include cohorts for both Coaching & Leadership and Special Education. The Thrive Partnership opportunities will include new S/TL cohort leaders, professional learning facilitators and aspiring teacher leader ambassadors. All opportunities will kick off in June with activities scheduled throughout the 2019-20 school year. School leaders are encouraged to email lead@dpsk12.org to nominate candidates. For additional information, please see the program overview. The application for all opportunities will be open Jan. 11-Feb. 15 .
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12/11/18 - Ritchie Program Application Deadline Extended to Jan. 4
All ILT Members
The Ritchie Program, offered in partnership with the University of Denver, has extended the application deadline to Jan. 4 for the June 2019 cohort. Interviews will take place Jan. 29-30.
Grounded in equity pedagogy, systems thinking, adaptive leadership and improvement science, the Ritchie Program engages participants in the real work of school leaders and provides opportunities to learn by engaging in leadership. Content is individualized to the leadership needs of aspiring leaders and the needs of their schools. Coursework is aligned with the School Leadership Framework and emphasizes distributive leadership and culturally responsive education. Upon completion, participants are eligible for a Colorado principal license and can continue for a Master’s degree or and EdD. Applicants can apply here. If you have questions, contact Dana Williams.
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12/11/18 - Apply for the 2019-20 National Principals Academy Fellowship Relay Cohort
All ILT Members
Relay’s National Principals Academy Fellowship (NPAF) is a one-year graduate fellowship program that offers innovative and impactful training that prepares current school leaders to become transformational instructional and strategic leaders. A limited number of seats are available for this rich, individualized and job-embedded experience. Detailed information on the program and commitments can be found here. School leaders are encouraged to apply by submitting the Statement of Interest and Readiness Assessment for the 2019-20 Relay NPAF Cohort to relay@dpsk12.org. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Jan. 18. If you have questions about the Relay program or the application process, contact Jennifer Troy or Lisa Sacker.
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12/4/18 - Apply for the Learn to Lead Principal Residency Program
All ILT Memebers
Learn to Lead (L2L) is a principal residency program committed to developing strong leaders for our schools and students. L2L is designed for experienced assistant principals who are interested in strengthening and developing their knowledge and skills related to school leadership. Residents work alongside a principal to learn the intricacies of being a principal while receiving on-the-job training that allows improvement in their leadership practice. Residents work together as a cohort to learn through case studies, strengthen their leadership identity and build their LEAD Framework competencies. If you or someone you manage is ready to take the next step in their leadership journey, click here to learn more about the program and to start an application.
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11/27/18 - Save the Date for Spring Leadership Weeks: Feb. 4-16
All ILT Members
Mark your calendar for Spring Leadership Weeks Feb. 4-16. Keep this learning opportunity in mind as you reflect on leadership growth during mid-year and end-of-year conversations this winter. Registration will open in January for professional learning that is aligned with leaders’ individual needs, LEAD competencies, schools’ goals and instructional improvement priorities. The weeks will include both required sessions for those who are new to their role this year, as well as sessions for all other leaders. Sessions in the spring will be spread out over two weeks to better distribute the need for guest teachers. Pay for guest teachers will be provided by the Teacher Leadership & Collaboration (TLC) department.
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11/141/18 - Share Your Feedback on 2018 SPF Training and Resources by Dec. 7
Principals Only
Each year, we try to improve our communications, training and support to better help school leaders in preparing for the upcoming SPF release. Please take this survey by Dec. 7 to let us know what was helpful for the 2018 SPF and what we can do better next year. Please note, this survey is focused on communications, training and support only -- not SPF methodology and measures.
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11/6/18 - Apply Now for the LEAD Scholarship
Principals Only
The LEAD Scholarship was created to support continued learning of experienced DPS principals and assistant principals with two or more years of experience in their role who are looking to grow in the LEAD School Leadership Framework competencies. Awardees will receive up to $2,000 for the 2018-19 school year, which they can use for professional development, a school visit, a conference or other learning opportunities that DPS may not currently offer. Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis with only a handful left, so be sure to apply soon. For more information and to apply, click here.
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10/23/18-2019-20 Principal and Assistant Principal Pool Now Open
All ILT Members
DPS’ Talent Acquisition team has announced that the 2019-20 principal and assistant principal candidate pools are now open. If you know of a qualified candidate, please encourage them to apply using these links:
Principal Pool:
- Access the principals application process.
- External candidates can apply here using job ID 31539.
- Internal candidates can submit applications through Info HR Employee Space using job ID 31539.
Assistant Principal Pool:
- Access the assistant principals application process.
- External candidates can apply here using job ID 31538.
- Internal candidates can submit applications through Info HR Employee Space using job ID 31538.
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10/2/18 - Share The Ritchie Program Opportunity with Your Aspiring Leaders
All ILT Members
The Ritchie Program, offered in partnership with the University of Denver, is accepting applications for Cohort 17 to begin in June 2019. Grounded in equity pedagogy, systems thinking, adaptive leadership and improvement science, the program engages participants in the real work of school leaders and provides opportunities to learn by engaging in leadership. Content is individualized to the leadership needs of aspiring leaders and the needs of their schools. The graduate-level coursework is aligned with the School Leadership Framework and emphasizes distributive leadership and culturally-responsive education. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for a Colorado principal license and can continue for a Master's degree. Encourage your rising leaders to attend one of two informational sessions:
- 4-6 p.m. Oct. 18 at West High School, social room
- 4-5 p.m. Nov. 7 at DU Rufatto Hall, 1999 E. Evans Ave.
Applicants can learn more and apply here by Dec. 3.
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9/17/18 - New Resource to Access ELA Professional Learning and On-Demand School Trainings
Principals Only
The English Language Acquisition (ELA) department is offering a Menu of Professional Learning to school leaders and teachers with all sessions aligned to ELA Program Review and LEAP Indicator domains. Most of our sessions can be adapted for your school and additional professional learning sessions can be developed that connect to your school's needs. For more information or to schedule sessions at your school, contact your ELA Partner.
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9/17/18 - Leadership Week Professional Learning Registration Now Open
All ILT Members
Register here for professional learning to support your leadership development during Fall Leadership Week, Oct. 8-13. Leadership Week is designed to provide access to relevant knowledge and tools that are aligned with leaders' school goals. Sessions intentionally designed for all leader roles from aspiring teacher leaders to experienced principals will be available. This includes sessions that are required for those who are new-to-role, sessions designed for returning leaders to develop in the LEAD competencies and sessions aligned to instructional improvement priorities. The registration window closes Sept. 28. If teacher leaders need guest teacher coverage, they can request it through this form.
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9/10/18 - Ensure Assistant Principals Have Access to Evaluate Other School Leaders
Principals Only
As a leader of leaders, you have the unique responsibility of continuously growing as a leader of leaders while building the capacity of others on your team. Do you have a leader in your school who evaluates other leaders and also needs to be able to observe them in Whetstone? The most common example is assistant principals who evaluate deans. In this case, you will need to set up your assistant principal as an indirect supervisor for every leader that they evaluate. Follow these step-by-step instructions to set up an evaluator as an indirect supervisor. If you have questions, email LEAD@dpsk12.org.
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8/27/18 - Provide Feedback on Consolidating the LEAD Framework and Growth & Scoring Guidance by Aug. 31
All ILT Members
We want to simplify your experience with LEAD by combining the LEAD Framework and the Growth and Scoring Guidance documents. In the proposed LEAD Consolidated Framework, you will see each specific competency, the indicator language and the evidence of impact by rating category (D, E, A, NM). Please review the LEAD Consolidated Framework Proposal and provide feedback by Friday, Aug. 31.
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8/13/18 - Opt-in to the LEAD Pilot for Senior Team Leads and Team
All Principals
There is still time for schools to opt-in to the pilot for evaluating Senior Team Leads and Team Leads with the LEAD Framework. The pilot will run for the entire 2018-19 school year and participants will receive Pilot LEAD ratings along with their LEAP evaluations. This pilot is in response to Senior Team Lead and Team Lead requests for more explicit feedback on their leadership roles and will determine what the final LEAD structure looks like for Senior Team Leads and Team Leads. For more information on the three pilot options and to sign up, click here.
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8/6/18 - Access 2018 School Performance Framework Updates
All Principals
The 2018 SPF updates are available to school leaders via this one-pager. Updates include timeline and methodology decisions for elementary and secondary schools. To receive SPF updates, access the SPF InfoHub or sign up for the SPF mailing list. We understand that it is difficult to have outstanding questions during this time but hope that these updates can help clarify any concerns. If you have questions, email SPF@dpsk12.org.
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Host LEAD Mid-Year Conversations
All Principals
Now is the time when all school leaders should have a mid-year conversation with their manager. LEAD mid-years do not need to be formally documented in Infor HR, though it's recommended that you document the meeting and feedback in some way. The mid-year serves as a check-in on how the leader's performance is aligned to the LEAD Framework. LEAD mid-year is also an opportunity to:
- Provide formal feedback.
- Address barriers to success.
- Assess progress toward achieving goals.
- Discuss professional growth plans.
- Request feedback on how you are leading.
- Document progress and feedback.
Visit thecommons.dpsk12.org/Lead for the LEAD Conversation Guide and Templates and more information and resources.
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7/23/18 - Apply Now for the LEAD Professional Learning Scholarship
All Principals
The 2018-19 LEAD Scholarship application is now live. The LEAD Professional Learning Scholarship was created to support continued learning of experienced DPS principals and assistant principals. Principals and assistant principals with two or more years of experience in their role who are looking to grow in the LEAD School Leadership Framework competencies are encouraged to apply. Awardees will receive up to $2,000 for the 2018-19 school year, which they can use for professional development, a school visit, a conference or other learning opportunities. The first round of applications will be reviewed Aug. 15 and scholarships will be awarded on a rolling basis. Click here to apply.
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7/23/18 - School Leader Video and Audio Recordings
All Principals
As we shift to a stronger "Leader of Leaders" focus in schools and emphasize the importance of coaching and feedback, we want to ensure that school leaders have the opportunity to receive real time, actionable feedback on the many aspects of their roles like coaching sessions, leading meetings and other areas of focus for their growth and development. Video and audio recordings are important tools that DPS utilizes to support the growth and development of its leaders. LEAD evaluations are based on a comprehensive body of evidence that could potentially include video used for coaching. If you do not agree to be recorded via video or audio as a potential part of the district's evaluation process, please email LEAD@dpsk12.org.
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5/29/19 - Access ILT and School Leader Development Resources on The Commons
All Principals
As you begin preparing for June and July Leadership Weeks and planning for the 2018-19 school year, access a variety of resources from the LEAD and TLC teams to support the growth and development of instructional learning team (ILT) members by visiting thecommons.dpsk12.org/ILTdevelopment. You'll be able to access the LEAD School Leadership Framework, a list of structured learning opportunities for leadership development in the LEAD Development Guide, the Work of the ILT diagram, the ILT Self-Reflection Tool and more.
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5/29/18 - Introducing Lift Off to Leadership: School Leader Orientation
All Principals
The LEAD team is introducing Lift Off to Leadership, a new LEAD onboarding model that supports new-to-role principals and assistant principals. Lift Off to Leadership is a school leader orientation program designed to introduce and support new school leaders. The program includes a coordinated set of activities for new school leaders to build awareness and foundational knowledge while also ensuring they are getting acclimated to the culture of DPS and creating important connections. Successful onboarding programs have been proven to increase retention, productivity, overall positive attitude and accelerate integration into leadership roles. Upon hiring, new school leaders are sent a welcome letter with information about Lift Off to Leadership and are automatically registered. If new school leaders have questions, they can email LeadinDenver@dpsk12.org.
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5/29/18 - Whetstone Training Coming Soon: What You Need to Know
All Principals
In the past, school leaders used a tool for collecting observations and data to support teacher growth and may have had to create their own systems for monitoring personal goals and growth with their instructional learning team (ILT). Whetstone offers one system for teachers, school leaders and SSPs, which enables seamless opportunities for monitoring growth.
Whetstone training will be available during July Leadership Week and the details are in the Whetstone Training Plan. Please note: Principals are responsible for allocating time for Whetstone training for teachers and SSPs during August Teal Days.
Thank you to the 19 schools at all education levels who participated in the mini roll out. We received valuable feedback, which you can find in this executive summary for the August roll out.
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5/21/18 - Reminder: Register for June and July Leadership Weeks by May 23
All Principals
Summer Leadership Week registration went live on May 16. Please work with your instructional leadership team to ensure your team is registered by May 23. Over 150 school leaders across the district voiced what sessions were most important to them, resulting in 70 different session options that are available during the upcoming June and July leadership weeks.
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5/14/18 - Infor HR Resource Center Now Available on The Commons
All Principals
Human Resources is excited to introduce the new Infor HR Resource Center on The Commons. The Infor HR Resource Center provides instant access to Infor HR step-by-step guides and e-Learning content all in one place. Visit thecommons.dpsk12.org/inforhrhelp to access the Infor HR Resource Center. As a school leader, you and your proxies perform many tasks within Infor HR on a regular basis. To support you in completing those tasks, we have created over 30 guides for processes such as granting and revoking proxy access, job postings, job changes, viewing Teacher Leader information and more.
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5/7/18 - Opt-in for LEAD Pilot for Senior Team Leads and Team Leads by May 18
All Principals
Complete this form by May 18 to opt-in to the pilot to test structures for evaluating Senior Team Leads and Team Leads using LEAD School Leadership Framework (SLF) competencies. The pilot is designed to test the applications of the SLF and leadership goals as components of the growth and performance system for Senior Team Leads and Team Leads. Schools can choose one of three structures outlined on this page. Leaders at pilot schools will benefit from increased clarity to host performance conversations and will receive additional perception and impact data to support leader of leaders goals. Before opting-in, be sure to talk with your IS and Senior Team Leads and Team Leads to determine the right structure for your school.
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4/3/18 - Apply for the Catapult School Leadership Program by April 13
All Principals
Catapult School Leadership is a one-year program for experienced principals seeking to strengthen the core capabilities of systems leadership through professional development and executive coaching. Participants will build expanded skills in communication and become experts in group dynamics and team development. Leaders will utilize tools to establish clear priorities, build coherence, drive momentum and effectively distribute leadership and accountability throughout their school. They will learn to take calculated risks, design innovative solutions and develop teams committed to continuous learning and collaborative innovation. Click here to learn more about the program and apply.
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2/20/18 - Still Drafting Your LEAD Goals? Recent SPF Changes May Have an Impact
Elementary Principals
As you are writing your LEAD student growth goals and selecting weights for the student growth measures, keep in mind that goals based on SPF measures may be affected by recent changes to the early literacy measures on the SPF. If you have already finalized your self-appraisal in InforHR (GHR), and would like to change the relative weight of SPF Growth, or a specific student growth goal that was directly tied to a specific measure on the SPF, please contact your Instructional Superintendent for approval. If they approve, please contact LEADinDenver@dpsk12.org for information about how to document that change.
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1/29/18 - Register for a Webinar to Prep for the LEAD End-of-Year Cycle
All Principals
In preparation for the LEAD 2017 end-of-year evaluation cycle beginning Feb. 1, the Lead in Denver team is offering a webinar where school leaders can review the components of the evaluation, process and timeline. Click here to register for the webinar from 8:30-9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 1. After you register, you will receive a calendar invitation with details on how to access the webinar. You are welcome to forward the invitation to other school leaders.
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1/29/18 - Review Resources for LEAD End-of-Year Conversations
All Principals
The LEAD team has several resources available to school leaders and their managers to support during goal setting and appraisal conversations. Please review this one-pager outlining the timeline and scoring process for 2017 LEAD and the LEAD End-of-Year Conversation Guide. You can access additional resources on the Lead in Denver page on The Commons. Remember, the LEAD appraisal and goal-setting window opens Feb. 1.
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1/22/18 - Encourage Teacher Leaders to Apply for the Denver Thrive Fellowship
All Principals
The Denver Thrive Fellowship is a new program developed by the Lead in Denver and Teacher Leadership & Collaboration teams. The program provides an opportunity for the strongest teacher leaders to expand their impact and increase their leadership capabilities. The first cohort kicks off this summer with activities scheduled throughout the 2018-19 school year. Principals and assistant principals are encouraged to email leadindenver@dpsk12.org to nominate candidates. Please encourage your most effective Senior Team Leads and Team Leads to apply. For additional information, please see the program overview. Applications are due 12 a.m. Feb. 12.
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1/22/18 - Assistant Principals Encouraged to Apply for Learn to Lead
All Principals
Learn to Lead is a principal residency program designed for experienced assistant principals who are interested in strengthening and developing their knowledge and skills related to school leadership. Residents work alongside a principal to learn the intricacies of being a principal while receiving on-the-job training that allows improvement in their leadership practice. Residents will also be part of a 15-20 person cohort who practice together through case studies at DPS schools, visit businesses to get a close-up view of external leadership practices and work together to define who they are as leaders while developing stronger skills in all of the competencies of the School Leadership Framework. Click here to read more about the program and access the application link. The deadline to apply is Feb. 12.
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1/22/18 - Apply for the Relay GSE National Principal Academy Fellowship
All Principals
Relay's National Principals Academy Fellowship (NPAF) is a one-year graduate fellowship program that offers innovative and impactful training that prepares current school leaders to become transformational instructional and strategic leaders. A limited number of seats are available for this individualized and job-embedded experience. Detailed information on the program and commitments can be found here. School leaders are encouraged to apply by submitting their Statement of Interest and Relay NPAF Readiness Assessment for the 2018-19 Relay NPAF Cohort to relay@dpsk12.org. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26. If you have questions about the Relay program or the application process, contact Jennifer Troy.
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1/22/18 - Schedule LEAD End-of-Year Conversations in February
All Principals
Your manager should schedule time with you to discuss your LEAD End-of-Year appraisal rating and 2018 goals in mid- to late-February, prior to the information being entered into Infor HR by the Feb. 28 deadline. If your manager does not reach out to schedule time with you, please be proactive in requesting this meeting. Don't forget to schedule conversations with the leaders you manage in this same timeframe. Click here for Word versions of the LEAD End-of-Year forms. Forms will be available in Infor HR Feb. 1. We also recommend using the LEAD Conversation Guide as a resource to help prepare for these ongoing conversations. -
1/17/18 - Living Our DPS Honoree: Michael Atkins
Michael Atkins
Learn to Lead Principal Resident, Grant Ranch
Equity“Mike Atkins is a champion for all students and staff at Grant Ranch and lives the Shared Core Value of Equity. Every day, he demonstrates that he cares for all of our students as well as our staff, and consistently exhibits a posture of listening and learning from others. Because of his personal and professional experiences, Mike has dedicated his efforts to help shift the culture of our building. He has helped align us toward one common goal -- that all students have equitable access to meaningful and transformative education.
By developing and implementing systemic changes, Mike has pushed the status quo and has helped us become a staff that is accountable to our students, our community and to each other. Mike inspires us to revisit why we dedicate our lives to our students and he empowers us to rise up to meet their needs. He is always a team player and works hard to ensure that everybody feels valued and everybody's voice is heard. Our school is a better place because Mike is a part of it!"-- Jessica Lujan, Cassandra Nason, Tom Philip and Susan Workman, Grant Ranch -
1/16/18 - Register for a Webinar to Prep for the LEAD End-of-Year Cycle
All Principals
In preparation for the LEAD 2017 end-of-year evaluation cycle beginning Feb. 1, the Lead in Denver team is offering a webinar where school leaders can review the components of the evaluation, process and timeline. Click here to register for the webinar from 4-4:30 p.m. Jan. 23. After you register, you will receive a calendar invitation with details on how to access the webinar. You are welcome to forward the invitation to other school leaders.
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1/16/18 - Apply for the Relay GSE National Principal Academy Fellowship
All Principals
Relay's National Principals Academy Fellowship (NPAF) is a one-year graduate fellowship program that offers innovative and impactful training that prepares current school leaders to become transformational instructional and strategic leaders. A limited number of seats are available for this individualized and job-embedded experience. Detailed information on the program and commitments can be found here. School leaders are encouraged to apply by submitting their Statement of Interest and Relay NPAF Readiness Assessment for the 2018-19 Relay NPAF Cohort to relay@dpsk12.org. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26. If you have questions about the Relay program or the application process, contact Jennifer Troy.
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1/16/18 - Learn about New ELA Program Implementation Ratings
All Principals
New this year, in addition to your final LEAD rating, principals will receive a separate ELA program implementation rating of "distinguished," "effective," "approaching" or "not meeting." Ratings are determined through your manager's consideration of your school's ELA program review and service plan implementation. This rating is not factored into your overall LEAD score but is part of the body of evidence for your professional practice rating. To learn more, read page 6 of the LEAD Growth & Performance System Handbook. -
1/8/18 - Nominate Teacher Leaders for the Denver Thrive Fellowship
All Principals
The Denver Thrive Fellowship is a new program developed by the Lead in Denver and Teacher Leadership & Collaboration teams that provides an opportunity for the strongest teacher leaders to expand their impact and increase their leadership capabilities. The first cohort kicks off this summer with activities scheduled throughout the 2018-19 school year. Principals and assistant principals are encouraged to email leadindenver@dpsk12.org to nominate candidates. Application materials will be available at the end of the month and the application process will be selective.
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1/8/18 - Register for a Webinar to Prep for the LEAD End-of-Year Cycle
All Principals
The Lead in Denver team is hosting two webinars to help school leaders prepare for the 2017 LEAD end-of-year evaluation cycle, which begins Feb. 1. The webinars will review the components of the evaluation and the process and timeline. Click here to register for a webinar from 9-9:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 11 or 4-4:30 p.m. Jan. 23. After you register, you will receive a calendar invitation with details on how to access a webinar. You are welcome to forward the invitation to other school leaders. -
1/8/18 - 2018 LEAD Student Growth and Professional Practice Goals are Due Feb. 28
All Principals
All principals, assistant principals and school leaders of others must set at least two student growth goals and at least one professional practice goal by Feb. 28. Goals should be submitted with 2017 end-of-year self-appraisals. Click here for the Overall Rating Self-Appraisal form or here for the Professional Practice Rating Self-Appraisal form.
Student growth goals are intended to highlight your primary areas of focus as they align with your school's Unified Improvement Plan and School Improvement Plan, and the goals must be measurable with data received before December 2018 (2017-18 CMAS data, for example). Your professional practice goal should be aligned with one of the six competencies in the School Leadership Framework or English Language Acquisition and highlight the focus for your leadership and career development. If you have questions, refer to the LEAD Growth & Performance System Handbook.
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12/18/17 - Ritchie Application Deadline Extended to Jan. 1
All Principals
Applications for the 16th Cohort of the Ritchie Program for school leaders will be accepted through Jan. 1. Please refer high-potential aspiring leaders to the application here.
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12/18/17 - Utilize LEAD Resources for End-of-Year and Access LEAD Body of Evidence Tool
All Principals
The LEAD appraisal and goal-setting window is Feb. 1-28. This is a shorter window than last year and slightly compressed because the CollaboRATE timeline is later this year. The self and manager appraisal templates are available here. Feb. 28 is the deadline for you to enter your goals and for your manager to enter your final rating into Infor HR. Click here for a one-pager outlining the timeline and scoring process for 2017 LEAD. Additionally, you can now access the LEAD Body of Evidence tool. While not all-encompassing, this dashboard aims to support data-driven LEAD decisions and reflection. To view detailed login instructions, click here.
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12/18/17 - Access Universal Flexibility Resources and Schedule a Consultation
All Principals
Access the flexibility website for resources to share with your team when making your universal flexibility decisions and visit the training center for screencasts and a turn-key presentation on the options. Check out the Curriculum, Assessment and Small Group Instruction pages for demos and fliers. Included are the technology requirements for the literacy intervention, science and social studies curricula and a calculator to estimate your small group instruction allocation. You'll also find guidance for declining a district option, including a purchasing timeline and a legal requirements checklist. Finally, see the 2018-19 Decision Handbook, which outlines complete details of the flexibility process.
For differentiated support, schedule a one-to-one consultation with content experts. The decision form will be available Jan. 8 with decisions due Feb. 2. If you have questions, email flexibility@dpsk12.org.
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12/11/17 - Apply for Learn to Lead
All Principals
Learn to Lead is a principal residency program designed for DPS leaders who are interested in strengthening and developing their knowledge and skills related to school leadership. Residents work alongside a principal to learn the intricacies of being a principal while receiving on-the-job training that allows improvement in their leadership practice. Residents will also be part of a 15-20 person cohort who practice together through case studies at DPS schools, visit businesses to get a close-up view of external leadership practices and work together to define who they are as leaders while developing stronger skills in all of the competencies of the LEAD framework. Click here to read more about the program and access the application link
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12/11/17 - Prepare for LEAD Mid-Year and End-of-Year Conversations
All Principals
As we approach the LEAD end-of-year period, here are updates for how senior team leads and team leads should receive feedback on the leadership portion of their role. For 2017 LEAD evaluations, managers are encouraged to give senior team leads and team leads feedback on the leadership portion of their role using the School Leadership Framework in conjunction with their LEAP mid-year conversations. All resources for LEAD end-of-year conversations will be made available for senior team leads and team leads and their managers including Word documents of the LEAD self-evaluation and manager evaluation forms.
Use of this resource is optional. Any LEAD feedback is informal and will not be collected. Click here for an FAQ outlining more details about how LEAD will work for senior team lead and team lead roles.
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12/4/17 - Give Feedback on the Lead Proposal for Senior Team Leads and Team Leads
All Principals
Please take a few minutes to review the Lead proposal for senior team leads and team leads pilot that will begin in the 2018-19 school year. Click here to view the proposal and take a short five-question survey to share your feedback by Dec. 18. Please share the proposal with your team to help the Lead in Denver team collect as much feedback on the proposal as possible. If you have questions, contact leadindenver@dpsk12.org.
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10/30/17 - Request a Lead-In-Denver Professional Learning Scholarship
All Principals
Lead in Denver is announcing the new Lead-in-Denver Scholarship to support continued learning by DPS school leaders. Awardees will receive up to $2,000 for the learning of their choice during the 2017-18 school year. Funds can be used for professional development, a school visit, a conference or other learning opportunities.
To support personalized and continuous learning, the scholarship is available to principals and assistant principals with two or more years of experience in their role who are looking to grow in the School Leadership Framework competencies. Scholarships will be awarded on a rolling basis. The first round of requests will be reviewed Nov. 13. To submit a request for funds, click here. -
10/16/17 - Help Inform the Lead Roll Out for Senior Team Leads
All Principals
The Lead in Denver and Teacher Leadership & Collaboration (TLC) teams are gathering feedback, data and input to inform the full roll out of Lead, with formal ratings for senior team leads and team leads for the 2019-20 school year. The next steering committee meeting will be held from 4-5 p.m. Oct. 18 at Thomas Jefferson High School. If you are interested in participating in the steering committee or providing feedback in other ways, sign up here.
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10/2/17 Look for SPF Report Distribution Details This Friday
All Principals
This Friday, Oct. 6, a Special Edition Principal Weekly will provide school leaders with all of the details about how SPF reports will be distributed to schools and what the expectations are for sharing this information with families. The email will include specific information for elementary, secondary, K-8 and K-12 schools, along with links to resources and communication supports. If you have questions, contact Molly Burke.
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10/2/17 Register Your ILT for Fall Leadership Development Weeks
All Principals
Remind your Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) to register for Fall Leadership Development Weeks before sessions begin Oct. 10. Some sessions are already close to capacity. After attending sessions throughout the year, set time aside in an ILT meeting for support the team to share their learning using these ILT Reflection and Implementation Questions:
- How will our learning support us to meet our school/UIP goals?
- When, where and how will we apply the learning for an individual, a team and/or the school?
What support is needed to ensure that this learning has the desired impact?
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9/25/17 Complete October Count Tasks by Oct. 9
All Principals
The October Count Window is open now through Oct. 9. Attendance should be taken in Infinite Campus (IC) for every period of the day during the October Count window. Reminder: Students only need to be present for a portion of the day Monday, Oct. 2 to meet funding requirements. Student Entry Information Forms should be filled out by your designated October Count contact and sent to StudentSubmissions@dpsk12.org before 5 p.m. Oct. 9. For instructions on how to fill out the Student Entry Information Form, click here. Find additional October Count information here. If you have questions, contact the Student Submissions Team.
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9/25/17 Submit Reduction in Building Staff Forms by Sept. 27
All Principals
Reduction-in-Building Staff (RIBS) forms must be entered in Infor HR by Wednesday, Sept. 27. Please send leader-signed RIBS forms to HR_JobStatus@dpsk12.org by 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28. The information session for reduced teachers takes place Monday, Oct. 2. Additionally, the hiring fair for unassigned teachers, SSPs, protechs and leaders takes place Wednesday, Oct. 4. The hiring fair is required for traditional schools with 2017-18 vacancies. Innovation schools with vacancies are strongly encouraged to attend as well. In preparation for the fair, please ensure you have posted all teaching vacancies. For assistance with posting positions, reference Infor HR guidance documents here. If you have questions, contact your HR School Partner.
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9/18/17 Sign Up to Help Inform the LEAD Roll Out for Senior Team Leads
Principals at Schools with TLC
The LEAD in Denver team is gathering feedback, data and input to inform the full roll out of LEAD, with formal ratings for Senior Team Leads and Team Leads for the 2019-20 school year. The first steering committee meeting will be held on Sept. 27. If you are interested in participating in the steering committee or providing feedback in other ways, sign up here.
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9/12/17 Access Timelines for 2017-18 Unified Improvement Plans
All Principals
Access Unified Improvement Plan (UIP) timelines and submission dates for the 17-18 year here, which includes dates for red and orange schools. Leaders should be aware that on these dates their UIPs will be pulled and reviewed. The first deadline is Oct. 18. All schools will receive feedback throughout the year and can access guidance documents shared through Principal Weekly, the UIP Website , Instructional Support Partners, School Improvement Partners and Data & Assessment Partners. Amanda Withington will be reaching out prior to these dates to support partners to ensure alignment and adequate supports are provided. If you have questions, contact Amanda Withington.
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9/5/17 Share Principal and AP Leadership Opportunities
All Principals
The assistant principal and principal application pools will open Oct. 2. The Talent Acquisition team will continue to accept applications through summer 2018. When interview events are not taking place, Talent Acquisition will make adjustments based on school needs. Current principals and assistant principals will also have support with assistant principal pool events. Please review the leadership staffing protocols for elementary and secondary schools. Encourage recommended staff members to apply. Send referrals or recommendations to SchoolLeadershipCandidates_HR@dpsk12.org. For more information, visit the DPS School Leaders Careers page.
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8/28/17 Attend a SPF Principal Review Process Webinar Sept. 13
All Principals
Attend a webinar to learn about the School Performance Framework (SPF) principal review process as well as resources to support leaders in reviewing their preliminary ratings. There are two webinar sessions available at 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sept. 13. Click here to sign up for a calendar reminder; attendees can use this link to access the webinar. The principal review period will take place Sept. 15-20. Final SPF results will be released Oct. 10. New parent-facing reports will be shared with the community. School leaders are reminded that preliminary SPF reports and ratings are pre-decisional and deliberative in nature. Public disclosure is not permitted; this includes sharing with school staff. Contact spf@dpsk12.org for more information.
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8/22/17 Review 2018 SPF Changes
All Principals
Review changes to the 2018 School Performance Framework (SPF) here. These changes reflect feedback from school and district staff and the community to improve communications of the SPF by combining measures, adjustments to assessments and an increased focus on college and career readiness. Updates and resources will continue to be provided as they are available. For more information, please contact spf@dpsk12.org.
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8/21/17 Learn to Lead Alumni and Residents - First Day of School
Here are a couple of photos from our Learn to Lead Residents and Alumni rocking it on the first day of School!
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8/21/17 Review 2017 SPF Changes
All PrincipalsPlease review the summary of changes to the 2017 School Performance Framework (SPF) since the June 19 special edition of Principal Weekly. These changes, which can also be found in the 2017 Summary, reflect feedback from schools and include changes to the attendance measure and supports for English Language Learners. School leaders should pay close attention to the changes to the disaggregated growth benchmark measures in the Academic Gap Indicator. A draft of measure points is also available here. Remember: These are not yet final. If you have questions, please contact spf@dpsk12.org.
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8/7/2017 Participate in the School Quality Review Process
All Principals
Lead in Denver and Tiered School Supports are excited to share an opportunity for principals to participate in the 2017-18 School Quality Review training and certification. Participants will learn more about the DPS School Quality Review process and will have the opportunity to support other schools' continued improvement. The School Quality Review is no longer a component of the School Performance Compact.
Ideal participants are principals who are interested in learning more about turnaround, would benefit from seeing other schools in action and/or are not currently engaged in one of our other external partnerships (Relay, UVA Turnaround, etc.). We do not recommend this training for principals in their first or second year.
Participants will attend a one-day training on Aug. 30, followed by an online certification test. If interested, please fill out this form. -
8/7/2107 Deadline for LEAD Mid-Year, Goal-Setting Extended to Sept. 1
All Principals
The LEAD mid-year and goal-setting deadline has been extended from Tuesday, Aug. 15 to Sept. 1. This extension allows more time to identify student growth and professional practice goals. Leaders must submit their goals as part of their mid-year self-appraisal in Infor HR. Before finalizing goals in Infor HR, be sure to have them approved by your manager. This worksheet mimics the questions found in the self-appraisal. Feel free to copy information from the worksheet into Infor HR after meeting with your manager. If you have questions, contact leadindenver@dpsk12.org. -
7/25/2017 Welcome Back -- Let's Keep the Energy Going!
Dear School Leaders,
Just a quick note to say how much we appreciated the attention and energy you brought to Monday's Universal meeting at North High School. We've created so much success for our kids and I'm excited for what we will accomplish in the coming year!
To keep the energy going, please encourage your teams to participate Aug. 16 in Our DPS Day's interactive viewing session. This will be a fun opportunity for Team DPS members to share their voices as the entire district is connected for an hour and a half.
We passed out packets Monday with information on how to host a successful Our DPS Day at your school. If you did not receive a packet for your school or need additional materials, please email OurDPSDay@dpsk12.org. Packets include how-to information, FAQs, details on our new Well-being Resource Center and more. You can also view the information online on The Commons.
Also, please join me in welcoming newly assigned principals and assistant principals for the 2017-18 school year. You can find a list of all new principals and assistant principals joining Team DPS here. Please reach out to our new teammates to say hello and offer support.
Warm regards,
Susana -
7/25/2017 Access to Talent Management Survey Results and ILT Self-Reflection Tool
All Principals
In June, principals received an email from DPS Talent Management with instructions on how to access their school's results from the Talent Management Survey and the Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) Self-Reflection Tool via our new dashboard.
Your ILT can still utilized the self-reflection tool and receive updated results in real time on the dashboard. The reflection tool link will remain live throughout the year so that your ILT can continue to use it as a tool. Once logged into the dashboard, to toggle between the survey results and the reflection tool results, use the blue dropdown menu in the top left corner.
If you have any questions on how to access or navigate the dashboard, or if you are having trouble logging in, please contact Talent Management.
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5/23/17 Review Updates to LEAD Rollout for S/TL & Team Leads
LEAD has changed its rollout strategy for Senior Team Leads and Team Leads to strengthen a support system for them in leadership roles. As part of the change, Senior Team Leads and Team Leads will not be evaluated with scores under LEAD next year. Instead, they will have the year to informally engage with the School Leadership Framework and use it to inform their growth and development. Managers will be provided resources for hosting feedback conversations based on the framework.
The LEAD team will gather feedback and data to inform the full rollout of LEAD with formal ratings for the 2018-19 school year. Senior Team Leads and Team Leads will still be evaluated under LEAP for the teaching portion of their roles. LEAP will remain separate from LEAD feedback. If you are interested in participating in the steering committee for this work or providing feedback, please fill out the LEAD for Senior/Team Leads | FEEDBACK form.
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5/9/17 Take the Talent Management Survey
All Principals
On Monday, May 15, school leaders, teachers and specialized service providers will receive a personalized link to the end-of-year Talent Management survey, which asks for feedback on LEAD, Instructional Leadership Teams, Teacher Leadership & Collaboration and other related topics. The survey will be open until May 26 and candid feedback is appreciated.
Feedback will be confidential and not shared in a way that identifies the submitter. Principals will gain access to their aggregate teacher responses in advance of School Leadership Week if at least five teachers in their schools complete the survey. Three schools (one small, one medium and one large) with the highest response rates will win $500 in school supplies. If you have questions, contact talentmanagement@dpsk12.org.
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5/2/17 LEAD Mid-Year and Goal Setting Begins May 15
The LEAD mid-year conversation and goal-setting window for principals, assistant principals and leaders of others is May 15-Aug. 15. This year, all school leaders are required to set and enter goals in Global Human Resources (GHR) by Aug. 15 as part of the mid-year self-appraisal.
Check out the LEAD Goal Setting Overview for more details on this new addition to LEAD. If goals are not entered, a final evaluation rating cannot be given at the end of year (January 2018) and compensation may be impacted.
It is strongly recommended that mid-year conversations, which help guide growth and planning for individual leaders, be documented by managers in GHR. We have developed a LEAD Mid-year Conversation Guide to help in planning for and hosting mid-year conversations.
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4/18/17 Sign Up for LEAD 2017 Intro. Webinars
All Principals
Sign up for a half-hour webinar for all school leaders to learn more about the changes to the 2017 LEAD Growth and Performance System. Register for one of the following LEAD 2017 Evaluation Scoring Guidance & Goal Setting webinars:
- Webinar times for principals, assistant principals and leaders of others: 4-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, or 9-9:30 a.m. Monday, May 1.
- Webinar times for Senior Team Leads and Team Leads: 4-4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, or 9-9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 3.
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4/18/17 Use the New LEAD Growth & Scoring Guidance Tool
Access a new tool just in time for LEAD mid-year conversations. Use the Growth and Scoring Guidance for a deeper dive into the Evidence of Effectiveness from the School Leadership Framework. It outlines expectations of performance across each school leadership role, and it can be used to facilitate alignment between leader and manager to drive growth conversations.
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4/11/17 Check Out Goal-Setting Processes for LEAD Mid-Year 2017
June Leadership Week (June 5-9)
- Monday, June 5: Leaders will have the day in their buildings. New principals and assistant principals will have a half-day New Leader Training.
- Tuesday and Wednesday, June 6-7: Network days
- Thursday and Friday, June 8-9: Choice sessions
July Leadership Week (July 24-28)
- Monday, July 24: Leaders will have the day in their buildings. New principals and assistant principals will have an all-day New Leader Training.
- Tuesday and Wednesday, July 25-26: Network days
- Thursday and Friday, July 27-28: Choice sessions
Lead in Denver leadindenver@dpsk12.org 720-423-3378
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3/21/17 New Leader Academy - June & July Leadership Weeks
June Leadership Week (June 5-9)
- Monday, June 5: Leaders will have the day in their buildings. New principals and assistant principals will have a half-day New Leader Training.
- Tuesday and Wednesday, June 6-7: Network days
- Thursday and Friday, June 8-9: Choice sessions
July Leadership Week (July 24-28)
- Monday, July 24: Leaders will have the day in their buildings. New principals and assistant principals will have an all-day New Leader Training.
- Tuesday and Wednesday, July 25-26: Network days
- Thursday and Friday, July 27-28: Choice sessions
Lead in Denver leadindenver@dpsk12.org 720-423-3378
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3/14/17 Learn More About the Redesigned Learn to Lead Principal Residency Experience
All Principals
To ensure all qualified Learn to Lead candidates have access to leadership development opportunities, and participation is not dependent on school funding, we are redesigning the principal residency experience. Beginning fall 2017, qualified assistant principal candidates may remain in their roles at their current schools while participating in the Learn-to-Lead program. Principal resident positions will no longer be separately funded and Learn-to-Lead participants will not be expected to relocate to a new school to access residency supports.
We recognize that for some, the opportunity to gain experience in a different school setting may be essential for continued leadership development. To support this, DPS is launching six fully funded, one-year fellowships. Candidates selected for the Learn-to-Lead program will be invited to consider this opportunity. Fellows will participate in a matching event with identified mentor principals to determine the school placement. Access the 2017-2018 Learn to Lead Application
Lead in Denver
leadindenver@dpsk12.org
720-423-3378 -
3/14/17 Prepare for LEAD End-of-Year Conversations with S/TL & Team Leads
TLC Principals
Part of a Senior Team Lead's or Team Lead's end-of-year experience will include feedback on their leadership roles using the School Leadership Framework. Review the Senior/Team Lead and LEAD 2017 FAQ to learn more about the informal process that Senior Team Leads and Team Leads will participate in this spring, as well as more details on how those roles will work more formally within the LEAD system next school year.
Lead in Denver
leadindenver@dpsk12.org
720-423-3378 -
2/21/17 Review Changes in Funding for Admin. Intern Positions
All Principals
Beginning in the 2017-18 school year, DPS will no longer fund administrative intern positions. Schools will have the option of hiring administrative interns if the candidates are part of the University of Denver Ritchie/ELSS or University of Colorado ALPS DPS licensure programs, but these roles will be fully funded at the school level. We deeply value our university partnerships; however, we believe this funding shift is critical as teacher career pathways have evolved over the last few years with the rise of distributive leadership structures in schools and Senior Team Leads and Deans of Instruction play an increasing role in fulfilling key administrative components. We also hope this will allow many licensure program participants to stay in their current roles rather than moving into positions that will end after one year. Principals will continue to receive a mentoring stipend to support the continuous development program participants in their schools.
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2/21/17 Learn More About the 2017 School Leadership Framework
All Principals
Now is the time to get to know the 2017 School Leadership Framework! The February Integrated Learning Time activity provides instructional leadership teams (ILT) with the opportunity to explore how leadership competency impacts progress toward school goals and to plan for ways of strategically leveraging the strengths of your ILT. Set your ILT up for success in 2017-18 by completing the Integrated Learning Time activity today.
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2/7/17 Check Out New Promotion Processes for Senior Team Leads
Principals at Schools with Teacher Leadership & Collaboration (TLC)
Based on feedback regarding GHR processes and the need to assess competencies for each Teacher Leadership & Collaboration (TLC) role, teacher leaders who are not continuing in the exact same role must now apply for all new TLC roles. This includes Team Leads who are interested in promoting into Senior Team Lead roles because there is a difference in competencies and responsibilities. If you have a Team Lead who may be a strong candidate for a Senior Team Lead role follow the Teacher Leadership & Collaboration Roles GHR Posting & Selection Process. Use the Requisition For A Teacher Leader form to fill vacant Senior Team Lead roles, interested candidates must apply in GHR. Promotions can no longer be completed through a transfer in GHR. Hiring managers can Create A Requisition For A Teacher Leader, position numbers are emailed directly to principals from the teacherleader@dpsk12.org inbox. -
1/24/17 Review Details for Instructional Deans 2016 End-of-Year LEAD Ratings
All Principals
All Instructional Deans will be evaluated under LEAD for the 2016 performance appraisals happening now until Feb. 14. Determining how many dean roles are evaluated and what indicators will contribute to their LEAD 2016 End-of-Year ratings depends on whether the deans have previously been evaluated under LEAD, as well as the length of time they have served in their roles.
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11/15/16 Prepare for LEAD Final Ratings Conversations
All Principals
LEAD final ratings conversations will occur from mid-January through mid-February. Again this year, school leaders will provide their supervisors with self-ratings so that they have an opportunity to share their voices, and so supervisors have further insight into how to lead the conversations.
All school leaders should complete self-ratings in Global Human Resources (GHR) by Jan. 13. To complete the process, school leaders will:
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Rate themselves on all 11 indicators of the School Leadership Framework using a seven-point scale (Not meeting 1-2, Approaching 3-4, Effective 5-6, Distinguished 7), and;
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Provide a summary of their overall performances, including areas of strength and opportunities for growth.
LEAD Final Ratings Conversations Timeline
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Nov. 23: Self-Rating Forms available in GHR
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Nov. 23-Jan. 13: School leaders complete self-ratings in GHR
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Dec. 8-9: IS/EDs norming on ratings
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January Network Meetings: IS/EDs norm principals on ratings
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Mid-January to Feb. 15: Final rating conversation window
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Feb. 15: Deadline for managers to finish conversations and finalize ratings in GHR
Role
LEAD 2016
Final ratings Jan-Feb 2017
LEAD 2017
Final ratings Jan-Feb 2018
Principal
✔
✔
AP, Principal Resident
✔
✔
Admin Intern
✔
✔
Dean of Instruction, Dean of Students, Dean of Culture
✔ or CPE (If LEAD, minimum of six indicators must be rated)
✔
AA
✔ if <50% in classroom (If LEAD, minimum of six indicators must be rated)
✔ if <50% in classroom
A technical guide for using GHR is available in the Principal Portal. If you have questions, please contact Laura Cotsapas.
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10/25/16 Deadline to Ensure S/TLs & Team Leads Receive CollaboRATE Feedback is Oct. 27
All Principals, TLC Schools
In December, teachers will have the opportunity to complete the CollaboRATE survey and provide feedback on their experience working with their Senior Team Lead or Team Lead. Senior Team Leads and Team Leads will receive a customized CollaboRATE report if at least five of their team teachers provide feedback. Please ensure that your Senior Team Leads and Team Leads receive valuable CollaboRATE feedback by reviewing the Senior/Team Leads that your teachers are connected to in GHR and updating any inaccuracies before Thursday, Oct. 27.