Choosing the Wrong Drivers for Whole System Reform

I liked Fullan's article on system reform, especially in the 4 drivers that are not the correct focus to have when attempting system change.  Now, not to be a negative person (I am all about Strength Based Approach!) but the wrong drivers....sorry, not lead drivers.... brought to light things in my organization that I can relate to, so they struck a louder cord during the first part of the article.  Then as I kept reading, I realized the article was just as much about the wrong lead drivers as it was about the right lead drivers, so I didn't feel as bad talking about the wrong instead of the right.
News flash for everybody:  Accountability is going to be a lead driver FOREVER.  It is what pays the bills now.  Parents use it to judge schools, and no matter what they say, districts use it to judge schools.  It would be great if that weren't the case.  Maybe with Common Core things will change.  again, sorry to be the Debbie Downer of the discussion, but things won't change much.  The number might...instead of being over 800 , schools may have to shoot for a 45?

I feel like technology is a lead driver because we base our decisions about curriculum around what technology is available.  It should be the other way around.  We have great technology support in our district, but boy can it get out of control in a hurry.  Similar to needing PD at the sites, the technology department has not been able to keep up with the increased amount of hardware.  A plan that included a tech hired for every so many pieces of new equipment would have help all of the sites handle this increase in technology as we transfer away from school providing it,. and move towards having students and parents fit the bill.

The drivers that work take more time and more PD, more interpersonal skills and more buy-in.  They will not be as effective with directives and you can't just keep throwing money at it.  That is why they don't take hold in as many places as the wrong lead drivers.  We need the people who teach these classes and write these papaers to either change jobs and become the leaders of districts, or influence those who do.

Shoot, I hope that didn't sound too "high schoolish" as a summary.  I can legally buy beer (notice I said 'legally'), so at least I can do something better than a high school student...:)