The Innovation Journey: From Ideation to Implementation in PGCPS

Our Strategic Planning Innovation Incubator (SPII) is gaining significant momentum as our second cohort moves from theory into action. This year, 16 dedicated Innovators are leading 11 “disruptive projects,” all united by a singular purpose: planting SEEDS of excellence across PGCPS.

Since December 2025, these staff members have been working closely together to test new ideas, solve challenges, and improve outcomes for students using structured problem-solving and innovation strategies. Guided by mentors from PGCPS and facilitators like Dr. Jean Snell (UMD) and Dr. Sarah Thomas (PGCPS), innovators aren't just identifying problems; they are actively testing solutions to transform school culture, student well-being, and family engagement. This year, the cohort had the opportunity to access resources through a grant from the Excellence Foundation for PGCPS, which funded materials to bring their vision to life.

Innovation in Action: Project Highlights

This year’s projects advance the District’s 5 Big Rocks through diverse and creative solutions:

• Social Narratives & AI Storytelling: Using AI to give students new ways to express emotions and navigate social challenges.
• Aprendamos Juntos (Learning Together): A parent academy at Colin Powell Academy, bridging the gap for multilingual families.
• BEE (Believe, Elevate, Excel): A transformative program at Largo High School focused on self-esteem and etiquette for young women.
• Take Flight – Classroom Calming Corners: Implementing therapeutic spaces at Maya Angelou French Immersion School to help students reset and recharge.
• From Silos to Synergy: Reimagining department collaboration at Crossland High School to improve professional learning.
• From Strengths to Transformation: Building an inclusive staff culture by combining Gallup Strengths with restorative practices.
• Student-to-Staff Bridge Program: Creating a professional pipeline for graduating PGCPS seniors to transition into district careers.
• The Whole Child Initiative: Reducing chronic absenteeism at Forest Heights Elementary through social-emotional learning and restorative practices.
• Decode & Discover Lab: A multisensory literacy program for grades 3–5 at Allenwood Elementary designed to close reading gaps and build literacy stamina.
• ATTEND: A data-driven intervention system at High Point High School specifically targeting chronic absenteeism.
• Getting the Word Out: Simplifying complex district processes through infographics and "one-pagers" to help staff find answers quickly.

During Largo International High School's Showcase and Symposium Day on June 4, innovators will have the chance to share how they turned an idea into action. It will be an opportunity to learn more about their approach and witness the results of this incredible journey as they present their findings, share lessons learned, and celebrate the impact of their "disruptive ideas" across our district.

If you would like to get involved, attend the showcase, or learn more about upcoming cohort opportunities, please email us at strategicplanning@pgcps.org. You can also visit the Hub: SPII Second Cohort Site to meet the innovators and the mentors who have been involved through this and past cohorts.