Case Clinic on Pro-Social Implementation by Jody Sorco

Introduction

• Presenter: Jody Sorco
• Facilitator: Paul
• Event Type: Rebooted Case Clinic series
• Focus: Discussion on Jody's work on pro-social applications in various contexts

About Jody Sorco

• Background in pro-social applications introduced by Dr. Steve Hayes
• Dissertation on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Educators
• Experience in using pro-social methods in Nevada and Virginia educational systems

Virginia Tiered Systems of Supports (VTSS)

• Director: Jody Sorco
• Objective: Implementing and scaling multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) across Virginia
• Composition: 20 direct staff, 40+-person project, multi-university collaboration
• Role: Provides coaching, technical assistance, and professional development across the state
• Reach: Supports 65 school districts, 618 schools, impacting over 700,000 students
• Goal: Improve division-level systems, prek-12 systems, and ultimately student outcomes

Pro-Social Implementation Strategy

Initial Assessment and Planning

• Tool: Pro-social pre-assessment survey
• First Focus: Individual and collective interests
• Core Design Principle 1: Shared purpose
• Activities:
  • Created a vision statement
  • Identified values (Trust, Sustainability, Skillfulness, Equity)
  • Action steps and goal development
  • Used mirror board for collaboration

Vision Statement

• Outcome: VTSS builds sustainable MTSS through collaboration...
• Methodology: Breakout sessions, group iterations, consensus building

Core Design Principles Surveys

• Selected Principles: CDP1, CDP3, CDP6
• Approach:
  • Individual and collective matrix for each principle
  • Goal development using SMARTY goals (with equity focus)
• Themes Identified:
  • Clear decision-making processes
  • Inclusive stakeholder involvement
  • Strong communication plans

Implementation and Progress Monitoring

Progress Monitoring Sessions

• Frequency: Monthly 2-hour dedicated sessions
• Activities: Status updates, resource allocation, feedback integration
• Outcome Measures:
  • Goal status
  • Next steps
  • Data usage

Data Analysis

• Survey Feedback: Analyzed effectiveness and importance of CDPs
• Observations: Increase in understanding and effectiveness perceptions

Strategic Plan

• Content: Vision, values, focus areas, goals, and progress measures
• Monitoring: Regular updates on progress, adjustments based on feedback
• Specific Goals: Improve knowledge fluency, develop inclusive decision-making models

Cultural Impact

• Language Adoption: Increased use of 'purpose' in meetings
• Conflict Resolution: Development of fair and fast conflict resolution processes
• Professional Development: Integration of psychological flexibility in trainings
• Sustainability Efforts: Book studies, community of practice initiatives

Lessons and Reflections

Technical and Logistical Challenges

• Example: Initial struggles with the mirror board
• Adaptation: Structured facilitation and consistent process

Psychological Flexibility

• Training: Use of metaphors, mindfulness exercises
• Integration: Planned ACT boot camps for further skill development

Hierarchical Environment

• Challenges: Managing expectations and fostering shared decision-making
• Approach: Emphasizing inclusivity and collective achievements

Future Directions

• Sustainability and Scaling: Ongoing implementation, broadening reach to more divisions
• Feedback Loop: Continuous refinement based on progress data and feedback

Conclusion

• Success: Building a culture of shared decision-making and pro-social behavior
• Call for Collaboration: Encouraged sharing of ideas and mutual support in pro-social initiatives