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Signature Practices

Overview

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What are signature practices?

Signature practices are…

Structures or processes

Activities, events, programs, action, protocols nested inside bigger structures or processes that unfold over time

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What are signature practices?

Signature practices can be…

A new spin on a common or existing practice

A new approach designed specifically to meet an existing challenge or opportunity

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Where can we find examples of signature practices?

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Outside of Education

New spin on an existing practice:

Michelle Kwan’s signature spiral

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Outside of Education

Associated with its originator:

This signature has lent its name to all signatures!

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OK…but…“signature practices” of schools?

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Graphic organizer for

vision alignment

“How will doing X support and move us closer to our vision?”

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How do we uncover or develop signature practices?

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Ask questions that focus on the areas in which the practices either are most likely to be present or most necessary

To uncover existing signature practices: How do you foster…? What do you do to enable…?

To raise awareness about potential:

What could you do to address or improve…?

How might you address (or help others to address) the need to…?

What could you introduce or put in place that would help others to…?

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Consider 3 key factors: Context – Are there conditions in place in the

district that may be acting to promote or inhibit the development or implementation of signature practices?

Experience/training – Is there a need for leadership training or support?

Real Purpose and audience – Is there an authentic reason for developing and implementing a “signature practice”?

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”Signature practices” are not the be-all, end-all, nor are they the only way of

looking at professional practice.

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The ability to tease out or establish signature practices is bigger than

evaluation.

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Recognition of the existence and importance of “signature

practices” is an opportunity to honor and encourage

professional creativity and innovation in the service of

improved learning.

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Something to ponder…

What signature practices are we developing and implementing related to professional evaluation?

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Summary Questions

Define the terms signature practices in your own words.

List 2 examples of signature practices not connected to education.

Explain the 3 key factors that need to be considered when developing signature practices.

Brainstorm some examples of signature practices that will benefit Simon Tech.

Answer the questions in complete sentences.