Reimagine lakeshore: A school division change initiative for the twenty-first century

Abstract

In 2012, Lakeshore School Division in Manitoba, Canada, embarked on a systemic change initiative called Reimagine Lakeshore. The intention was to prepare students for the realities of the twenty-first century by meeting the needs of all students in the division. The division garnered support for this work from the provincial Department of Education and through a community-university partnership grant from the Canadian government. School division leaders adopted a design-based process for change developed by Giesbrecht (2014). The process included input from all stakeholders. Leaders cultivated a culture of trust and risk-taking that encouraged experimentation and sharing. The objective of this research was to determine the success of this change initiative and to identify the successes and challenges. Researchers employed a mixed methods approach that included document analysis, online surveys, participant interviews, and focus group discussions. Statistical analysis and thematic analysis procedures were used and indicated varying degrees of success in moving toward greater quality, equity, and engagement across the division. The multiple perspectives represented within this research will provide valuable reflection for anyone considering educational change for global capacity.