In today's knowledge-driven society, it is essential that schools graduate highly literate, numerate, and articulate knowledge workers. Constant developments in technology and science necessitate teaching students advanced skills. New ways of learning, such as collaboration and creative problem solving, are in demand and require adaptive, entrepreneurial skills. Today's innovative schools meet these growing challenges by drawing on the wealth of talent, insight and expertise of the community members who comprise the schools, i.e. as learning organizations. By drawing upon the contributions of all members, including students and parents, today's innovative schools stay in touch with the needs of their learners.
Innovative schools bring about change by working together and proactively listening to each other.
This collaborative teamwork has resulted in schools being able to work with change to bring about better environments for learning. Being innovative means recognizing that, in addition to being learning communities composed of educators, students, administrators and parents, there is a role to play as a contributing member of the local community. With the demand for new skills, educators in many innovative schools often draw on experts in local technology firms for advice. This provides an excellent opportunity for schools to showcase their skills and innovative work within the broader community. Each of their innovative best practices is focused on improving learning.