For 10 years, Atlanta Public Schools has utilized the resources, tools and coaching of Gallup CliftonStrengths to get the best out of its employees.
The Gallup CliftonStrengths is an assessment tool that helps people better understand how they think, act, and behave. There are 34 strengths, which fall under the five primary domains (Executing, Influencing, Relationship Building and Strategic).
“It’s not a personality test,” APS Office of Strategy and Engagement Program Director Dr. Ashley Layne said. “It is just a better way to understand who you are and how you collaborate with others.”
“It’s really to drive performance,” she added. “That’s why we do it here. We believe that when you focus on your strengths and lean into your strengths, you’re going to be your best self which ultimately drives high performance.”
Ten years ago, APS initiated a culture shifting initiative focusing on Strengths to develop a high-performing culture. A 2020 Gallup Consulting Spotlight found that APS’ most engaged teachers have greater alignment with its aspired purpose, brand and culture than less engaged teachers.
The study also found that APS saw improvements in student outcomes as well, including an 18 percentage-point increase in graduation rates over a three-year span. In 2021, APS won the Don Clifton Strengths-Based Culture Award.
Sticking with any one resource or initiative for a decade is a testament to its value, and the CliftonStrengths tool has survived several leadership changes at Atlanta Public Schools. Leaders who have utilized this resource and incorporated it into their roles have seen how it impacts their teams and the work they produce.
“I truly believe that StrengthsFinder has helped to promote a positive culture in my department,” APS Director of Instructional Technology Dr. Natasha Rachel said. “My leadership team has become closer and more understanding of the way that each of us works. I have seen an overall improvement in the quality of our work, the pride each of them takes in their projects, and the way that they work together.”
The impact from using CliftonStrengths with employees was so beneficial that APS piloted an effort to bring it to the school level last year. Starting with high school students in the Gifted and Talented Program’s internship program, Student Government Association leaders, and Beta Club leaders, APS has ventured into new opportunities to grow the Gallup Strengths work with students.
“This is the second year Dr. Layne has worked with our students, and the success of the program is a testament to the value of the Gallup Strengths,” APS Gifted and Talented Program Instructional Coach Andrew Nichols said. “The students have embraced the opportunity and expressed how valuable knowing and communicating strengths have been to their internship experience.”
As it turns out, the same value that adult employees receive from understanding the strengths of their coworkers along with their own can also be a valuable resource for students preparing for life after high school.
“How powerful is it for students to really understand who they are as they are going into whatever life they decide to go into after high school, whether that’s college or career but really understanding what they do best,” Dr. Layne said.
As APS celebrates 10 years with Clifton GallupStrengths, we encourage you to reflect on your Strengths and lean on that understanding to help make APS the best urban school district in the country.
Discover more from APS Today
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
