Projects in Education

In every district and school, there are numerous projects undertaken each year. Unfortunately, most are not officially recognized as projects or thought of in that way. Instead, they are called other names such as reports, submissions, programs, and procedures. Even so, they are projects and require good management.

Curriculum writing and revision, implementing technology and technology-based programs, school building renovations, grounds maintenance, and talent acquisition are some educational projects found in educational organizations. However, what is missing are dedicated education-specific project managers and an education-specific project management philosophy and process to complete the many projects typically found in education successfully.

Educational project management is usually the responsibility of administration, staff, or maintenance persons. The project manager depends on hierarchical access and geographical location (whoever is responsible for that area and closest to the proposed project). In contrast, in the “business world,” project managers are hired specifically for their skill at accurately implementing, managing, and completing projects on time and within budget. It’s time we, in education, at least think about doing the same.

It’s through projects that we implement the vision and mission of an educational organization. For example, we implement instructional programs (a project) to fulfill our mission of educating students. In addition, websites are designed (a project) to represent our vision. Sometimes, we even state the vision and mission right on the landing page of the district website. Projects are the core of a school’s strategy to create, maintain, and improve its culture and climate by implementing its mission and vision.