From Vision to Implementation
Building on the discovery, inspiration, and exposure provided in Year 1, the second year of the ILN experience shifts toward deeper implementation, collaborative problem-solving, and sustained innovation leadership. Participants will move from exploration to action by designing and launching localized change initiatives aligned to one of the three innovation domains introduced in Year 1.
The core purpose of Year 2 is to support leaders in bridging the knowing–doing gap through structured action research, dedicated coaching, and peer learning—prioritizing real-world implementation, adaptive leadership, and community-wide engagement.
Outcomes for Participants:
By the end of Year 2, participants will:
- Launch and lead an innovation initiative aligned to local goals and system needs
- Apply adaptive leadership and innovation strategies grounded in real work
- Strengthen capacity in data use, storytelling, and stakeholder engagement
- Build the confidence and conditions to scale change beyond a pilot phase
Key Components
Innovation Change Project (ICP)
Each participant (or team from a building or district) will design and implement one priority innovation initiative aligned to one of the following domains:
- Innovative Structures for Personalizing Learning
- Instructional Models and Student Support
- Tools and Technologies to Improve Outcomes
Projects may include (but are not limited to):
- Piloting a microschool model
- Redesigning the master schedule to personalize pathways
- Launching a mastery-based unit
- Integrating AI tools for instructional planning or student supports
Participants will:
- Apply inquiry cycles and feedback loops to guide iteration and improvement
- Define a clear problem of practice or opportunity for innovation
- Develop a project plan with specific goals, stakeholder engagement, and success metrics
Coaching & Thought Partnership
Each participant will be paired with a dedicated coach (MASSP/MV facilitator or innovation advisor) for 60 minute monthly or bi-monthly support. Coaching will include:
- Strategic check-ins and accountability
- Support navigating barriers and systems
- Guidance on managing change across teams and stakeholders
- Feedback on project design, communication, and scaling
Learning Network & Design Studios
Participants will
- Join quarterly virtual design studios for peer feedback, tools, and collaborative reflection
- Participate in optional site visits or virtual showcases aligned to their ICP domain
- Engage with innovative leaders and exemplars from across Michigan and beyond
Storytelling & Scaling Impact
Participants will reflect on their role as “Chief Narrator” and:
- Create a digital artifact or short presentation to share project insights
- Participate in a final showcase at EdCon27 to inspire others and build system momentum
Optional Site Visits
Optional, targeted in-person visits offer experiential insight into schools actively implementing the innovations explored during webinars.
- Observe classrooms and programs
- Engage in dialogue with host school leaders and teams
- Reflect upon and extrapolate key takeaways
- Consider how to adapt ideas within their own local contexts
Program Structure & Timeline:
*Dates/Times may change due to the availability of guest contributors and site visit host schools. Most changes are communicated weeks in advance.
| Month/Date | Event/Time | Focus |
| Sep 17, 2026 | Year 2 Virtual Kickoff 9:00–11:30 AM | Reconnect with peers, preview the Innovation Change Project, refine initial ideas, clarify expectations, and set goals for the year. |
| Nov 5, 2026 | Design Studio 1 9:00–11:30 AM | Share early project ideas, receive peer feedback, refine the problem of practice, and identify initial success measures. |
| Jan 14, 2027 | Sandbox 1 9:00–11:30 AM | Engage in hands-on application, tool exploration, and project work time connected to each participant’s innovation focus. |
| Feb 11, 2027 | Design Studio 2 9:00–11:30 AM | Share progress, troubleshoot challenges, examine early evidence, and gather peer feedback. |
| Mar 11, 2027 | Sandbox 2 9:00–11:30 AM | Continue hands-on project development, explore tools/resources, and strengthen implementation or scaling plans. |
| Apr 15, 2027 | Design Studio 3 9:00–11:30 AM | Synthesize progress, prepare the project story, identify lessons learned, and begin shaping the final artifact. |
| May 6, 2027 | Project Reflection & Artifact Creation 9:00–11:30 AM | Capture lessons learned, document the project journey, identify impact and next steps, and create a digital artifact or short presentation. |
| Jun 28–30, 2027 | EdCon27 Showcase Time TBD | Share Innovation Change Project outcomes, reflect on progress, celebrate learning, and inspire future ILN cohorts. |
**Monthly coaching will take place October–May and will be scheduled individually or in small groups based on participant needs, project focus, and availability.
Closing Rationale
Year 2 is where vision becomes transformation. By extending support through strategic coaching, peer collaboration, and storytelling, MASSP ensures ILN participants are not just learning about innovation—they’re leading it. This second-year experience provides the structure, community, and confidence needed to scale change that is meaningful, measurable, and student-centered.