Greetings Region 4 Team,

Happy New Year! I trust you all enjoyed the winter break and have returned with renewed energy and enthusiasm for the remarkable journey that lies ahead in 2024. This year promises incredible experiences, including rebranding Region 4, greeting each other in the hallways in March, reaping the benefits of the R4 Hub and improved studio, redesigning our websites, reopening the MCC, and possibly renovating our office spaces later in the year. This is an exciting time to be a District Advancement Champion!  

To kickstart this new year, let's reflect on John Murphy's sixth rule for high-performance teamwork: Use a rational problem-solving process. We've all been in meetings where ideas are scattered and discussions seem to jump ahead without a clear plan. Problem-solving becomes challenging when the team isn't on the same page. Mr. Murphy's guidance in this chapter outlines a three-step process that promotes a collaborative approach to problem-solving right from the start. 

• The first step involves team bonding through "gathering data, reviewing the facts, and defining the problem." During this phase, the focus is solely on gathering information and not on analyzing data or proposing solutions. It's all about sticking to the facts.  

• In the second step, the team "gathers ideas, explores options, and identifies alternatives" while refraining from passing judgment or expressing opinions on the ideas or approaches suggested. This phase encourages open sharing of ideas for later exploration.  

• Finally, in the last step, robust discussions take place where questions are asked, opinions are expressed, and the potential impact of each solution identified in the previous step is considered. 

By postponing the evaluation of ideas until the third step of the rational problem-solving process, we ensure team alignment and readiness for collaboration. The best idea emerges naturally, and no idea is prematurely dismissed without due consideration.  

As we step into 2024, let's embrace this approach to problem-solving and make it our collective resolution to innovate together more effectively. Together, we will make the most of the opportunities this year has in store for us. 

Here's to an inspiring and productive year!

Sincerely,

Rodney Watson, PhD

Executive Director, Region 4 ESC

Welcome, Stephanie Noriega!

Region 4 is pleased to welcome Stephanie Noriega as the new Chief of Strategic Communications and Engagement. Stephanie brings a track record of success, with more than 17 years in communication.

Stephanie previously served as the Managing Director of Communications at Good Reason Houston, where she designed and implemented a number of highly successful campaigns, including Go Somewhere and Houston Loves Teachers. Stephanie also has served in the national nonprofit sector.

Stephanie has extensive experience spanning numerous communication channels, including social media, email, website design/redesign, branding, advertising, video, graphic design, writing, copy editing, and photography. She is proficient in both Spanish and English, which enhances her ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Please join us in welcoming Stephanie to our team!

Use Caution When Including Links in Region 4 Materials

Prior to including links to external websites in Region 4 materials, be sure you have conducted a thorough review of the external website's content. Our use of a link may be interpreted as Region 4’s endorsement of the website and its content.

Additionally, if you intend to include an external website link in a presentation, social media post, or other outward-facing material, please evaluate the website for the presence of DEI content. If the website includes DEI material, Region 4 cannot direct viewers to that website. TEA periodically evaluates Region 4’s publicly available content (e.g., social media posts) and will direct Region 4 to remove all links to DEI-related material.

Reminder: Virtual Meeting Backgrounds

As we continue working remotely, we'd like to remind staff members that Region 4 has created five background options for use during virtual meetings. The backgrounds, which are approved and recommended for staff use, are available for download on the intranet for your convenience.

All Aboard the Wayback Time Machine!

The Communications team wants to see your favorite McKinney Conference Center photos! In anticipation of the completion of renovations and the grand reopening of the MCC, Communications is creating a short video to share with staff members documenting some of the innumerable visitors, speakers, and others Region 4 has served over the years.

Your contribution helps ensure our work is the best it can be, and we greatly appreciate your submissions!

Click the button below to share your snaps and videos. Contact Marijane Kelly, mkelly@esc4.net, with questions.

The much-anticipated skylights have been installed, as have windows along the upstairs professional development room bordering the lobby.

Let the Sunshine In!

The MCC has undergone perhaps the biggest change of the renovation process: The skylights are in!

These new windows to the outside world allow in ample natural light and create a more welcoming environment for guests and staff members alike.

Windows have been installed along the side of Room 201 on the second floor of the conference center as well. The windows allow in natural light and provide a bird's eye view of the lobby below.

We are also excited to share the progress that has been made on the Tidwell lobby, the second floor balcony, and the Region 4 Hub.

Check out the pictures to see how far we've come!

Above: Room 201 now includes a panel of windows facing the lobby below. Below: The Region 4 Hub has been painted, and new glass walls have been installed along what was previously the open front entrance.

Left: The Tidwell Lobby has been painted, and work is proceeding on the installation of new flooring. New cabinetry and desks have arrived and await installation. Right: The second floor balcony has been painted, and new ceiling tiles and lighting have been installed. The area has been recarpeted as well.