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 facilitator or innovation advisor) for monthly or bi-monthly support. Coaching will include:
- Feedback on project design, communication, and scaling
- Strategic check-ins and accountability
- Support navigating barriers and systems
- Guidance on managing change across teams and stakeholders
Learning Network & Design Studios
Participants will
- Engage with innovative leaders and exemplars from across Michigan and beyond
- 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
Storytelling & Scaling Impact
Participants will reflect on their role as “Chief Narrator” and:
- Participate in a final showcase at EdCon26 to inspire others and build system momentum
- Create a digital artifact or short presentation to share project insights
Program Structure & Timeline:
| Month | Event/Component | Focus |
| Sept. | Virtual Kickoff | Reconnect with peers, preview the Innovation Change Project (ICP), refine ideas, set goals and expectations |
| Oct.–May | Monthly Coaching | Ongoing 1:1 or small-group support to refine strategy, address barriers, and sustain momentum |
| Oct.–May | Professional Learning Network (PLN) | Optional virtual peer meetups by innovation domain to share ideas and crowdsource solutions |
| Nov., Feb., May | Virtual Design Studios | Quarterly sessions for peer feedback, new tools, and collaborative problem-solving |
| Dec.–Mar. | Optional Site Visits | Visit schools aligned to your project focus to gain practical insights from real-world models |
| Apr.–May | Project Reflection & Artifact Creation | Synthesize learning, capture lessons, and create a digital artifact to share your story |
| June | Virtual Showcase | Statewide celebration to share ICP outcomes, reflect on progress, and inspire future cohorts |
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.