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Leading the Total Extension Program. Juggling the Program Management Ball. OCES County Director Training May 2011. One day thou art an extension educator…. The next day thou art a county extension director…how did that happen???. If I knew then what I know now!. Objectives.
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Leading the Total Extension Program Juggling the Program Management Ball OCES County Director Training May 2011
One day thou art an extension educator… The next day thou art a county extension director…how did that happen???
Objectives • Clarify the role of the county director in providing leadership to all Extension programs • Review what to look for in an effective program • Identify 5 keys things county directors must know in order to provide effective program leadership and strategies for learning about each
Programmatic Role of the County Director • Ensure the Extension program in the county effectively addresses issues of concern to stakeholders by providing high-quality educational, research-based programs
Is it a program? • A field day? • A newsletter? • A workshop? • A tour? • A producer meeting?
Defining a “Program” • The product resulting from all activities and teaching methods that are linked by educational objectives to produce a behavioral change in participants.
Three Basic Parts Personal interest & expertise Organizational context Stakeholder needs
Things to look for • Real “programs” • Advisory councils represent stakeholders • Collaboration & cooperation • Focus on “planning” rather than “doing” • Well-documented program planning process • Programs focused on stakeholder needs • Educators understand & appreciate the value of well-planned & well-executed programs • Documented program outcomes
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but a lot of knowledge is a powerful thing!
5 Key things to know • Know your county • Know the stakeholders • Know the needs of stakeholders • Know your extension educators • Know their programs
Know your county • Get the facts • Visit with local government officials • Participate in county and community government events and meetings
Know the stakeholders • Get involved in civic organizations • Be active in county and community events
Know the needs of stakeholders • Attend advisory council meetings • Conduct interviews, focus groups or surveys to discover and learn about the stakeholders • Talk with key leaders one-on-one
Know your extension educators • Sit with them one-on-one to learn about them • Build rapport • Establish trust • Ask for and offer feedback • Ask what you can do to help them be more successful…then do it!
Know their programs • Conduct regular staff conferences • Ask for regular program updates • Create a master calendar • Participate in their programs • Read correspondence • Review program evaluation results & coach educators on ways to improve
Summary • Communication is vital. Keep your ears open. • Continually try to learn more about the county, the stakeholders and their needs, your educators and their programs. • Toot extension’s horn…share program impacts with stakeholders • Remember: The learning is NEVER done as long as you are leading Extension programs .