The Virginia Leads Innovation Network is composed of annual cohorts of Lead Innovation Teams from school divisions in Virginia. Each cohort consists of teams from up to 35 divisions. The Network connects educational innovators who purposely work together to identify, use, and share strategies and actions designed to implement the Profile of a Virginia Graduate . Teams meet during the cohort cycle in Institutes designed to spark ideas and actions for local innovation initiatives. Teams also work closely with an expert coach who supports implementation of local innovation initiatives focused on three outcomes:
Expanding instructional use of Deeper Learning strategies
Increasing Equity so all learners participate in rich, challenging learning experiences
Implementing actions to fully and actively Engage all learners through multiple pathways leading to high school graduation
The Profile of a Virginia Graduate provides local school communities with a frame of competencies that students should develop as they master the Virginia Standards of Learning and work through division curricula.
In the Network, Lead Innovation Teams research and develop innovative approaches designed to ensure that all learners develop complex competencies essential to long-term success in homes, communities, and the workforce. As teams determine the effectiveness of innovations, they share artifacts, media, and “how to” information through face-to-face and virtual communication across the Commonwealth.
VaLIN's Foundational Engagement Strategy
Pre-Planning - Members of the Commonwealth Learning Partnership, VaSCL, and ALP facilitation team (including pertinent experts) assemble to develop / refine the project plan, resources and logistics for each cohort.
Kick-Off Regional, Local, and Virtual Seminars - Regional cohorts convene for one (1) “cohort launch” visioning event. In alliance with their assigned coach, members of the cohort then participate in one of three District-based planning sessions as well as up to three virtual seminars.
Mid-Point Regional, Local, and Virtual Seminars - Cohorts convene for one full-day collaborative design and networking event. Additionally, they participate in one of three District-based planning sessions as well as up to three virtual seminars.
Culminating Regional, Local, and Virtual Seminars - Cohorts convene for one final full-day planning event in their regional hubs. Additionally, they participate in one of three District-based planning sessions as well as up to three virtual seminars.
