A key to supporting teachers is to engage in meaningful consultation, provide support resources, and then get out of their way.  For example, a middle school initiated a new laptop program, but teachers had little time to incorporate the laptops into their planning in year one. 

Meaningful consultation is also very important. If teachers are involved in decision processes, then those closest serve as ambassadors for changes, and groups are empowered rather than frustrated. Telling stakeholders that `we have thought about it and this is how it is’ is different from `here are some challenges we have and we would really appreciate your input on this’. Teachers are encouraged to work within a challenge rather than be subject to it.

The other point is of course bottom up. As a teacher myself, I thrive on the energy that comes from an engaged class. In many cases I think all that we need to do is get out of the way and let our teachers shine.