JUST THINKING…Talking CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT with Lesli Laughter

 

Innovative planning and continuous improvement in education stands at the forefront of school improvement, a strategic linchpin that propels institutions toward a future of achievement and excellence. At the heart of this transformation is adopting a continuous improvement mindset, where educators and administrators constantly seek better strategies and outcomes for their students. Just Thinking offers a deep dive into the power and potential of innovative planning within the educational sector, underscoring its role in driving schools toward sustained progress and success.

Host Kevin Dougherty sits with Lesli Laughter, an Author and the Chief Academic Officer at 806 Technologies. Together, they unravel the layers of innovative planning, debating its impact and dissecting common misconceptions. Through their dialogue, the essence of continuous improvement in educational settings is brought to light, offering valuable insights for educators nationwide.

Laughter emphasizes that continuous improvement is more than a buzzword; it’s about a commitment to be better tomorrow than today. It’s about understanding the needs of students and integrating improvement into the school culture. They also tackle the concept of “strategic abandonment,” which is essential for schools to adapt and grow without becoming overburdened. Laughter’s approach to leadership and innovation in education stands out for its simplicity and clarity, striving to prevent the overcomplication of systems within schools.

The conversation extends beyond methodologies to the psychological and cultural aspects of implementing change, including the inevitable “implementation dip” and maintaining a positive outlook. They discuss the value of recognizing and building upon the strengths and assets within schools to bring joy back into the educational process for educators and students.

Laughter’s passionate belief in the power of continuous improvement as a means to reduce stress and enhance educational experiences resonates throughout the discussion. The forthcoming book, “Continuous Improvement without Continuous Stress,” promises to be a valuable resource for educators seeking to navigate the complexities of educational reform with grace and efficacy.

Recent Episodes

Detroit’s renewal is no longer a distant dream—it’s unfolding in real time. From reimagined neighborhoods to booming small businesses, the city’s momentum is visible on every corner. Major events, like recent large-scale sports and cultural gatherings, have showcased its vibrancy to hundreds of thousands of visitors. But the real engine of this revival may…

In today’s rapidly changing world, effective leadership in education is about more than managing schools—it’s about inspiring a culture of thinking that empowers both teachers and students. As classrooms adapt to new technologies, diverse learning needs, and shifting societal demands, leaders have the responsibility to guide not just the acquisition of knowledge but the…

Small colleges across the United States face mounting pressure from shifting student expectations, rising costs, and an increasingly competitive higher education market. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, undergraduate enrollment rose 3.5 percent in spring 2025 compared to the prior year, reaching 15.3 million students, but still remains 2.4 percent below pre-pandemic…