2. Make Sure the First Exposure Is Great!

• Failure to ensure a strong start is a common obstacle to effective change. NCLB got off to a bad start as it was initially perceived as threatening. First impressions are all important so plan well to make the initial exposure as positive as possible. Just because you are excited about something doesn’t mean you can pass the excitement directly to everyone else. Consider bringing in a guest speaker with expertise and flair. If you visit other schools, make sure they are successful and take positive, open-minded people first. If you send a negative person during later visits, surround them with supporters. Consider meeting with small groups and start with potential supporters. Then bring in the fence sitters. Lead with the strong parts of the program and save analysis of pros and cons for later.

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