When leading cycles of continuous improvement in a school setting, there are four foundational skills that are essential for managing change effectively:

• Recognize that you are always operating within a cycle of continuous improvement
• Model experiences and tease conditions within cycles of continuous improvement
• Reflect on the leadership moves you make to progress towards your goals
• Sharpen your ability to reflect often to become a more strategic and disciplined leader

A cycle of improvement typically involves several phases, including:

• Identifying the problem or researching
• Analyzing the data or root cause
• Planning or strategizing
• Implementing or monitoring
• Reflecting or assessing

In addition to technical skills, adaptive skills are crucial for leading cycles of improvement effectively. Some adaptive skills that are important for school leaders include:

• Considering external factors in the environment and their impact
• Applying strategies to change behavior

When prioritizing adaptive skills for personal development as a school leader, focusing on these foundational skills can be beneficial for coaching and leading cycles of continuous improvement towards increased school efficacy.