The East Central Ohio Educational Service Center (ECOESC) helped to launch the “Ohio Strengths Collaborative” this school year in partnership with Jim Mahoney and RedBrick Hill. Mahoney has more than 40 years of experience as an educational leader and has made presentations across the United States, Canada, and China about a wide range of topics and is a published author. 

The Ohio Strengths Collaborative seeks to introduce the Clifton Strengths Assessment to a classroom setting. 12 pilot districts, including ECOESC member district, Indian Valley, have begun training on use of the assessment and implementing it in their schools. The approach includes the following key steps: Discover one’s unique strengths using the Clifton StrengthsFinder Assessments, Develop those strengths through professional learning and support resources, Apply those strengths to the educational experience, and Embed these strengths and strategies into everyday life to ensure long-term success and sustainability. According to research performed by Gallup, “Knowing and understanding one’s strengths invites people to focus and grow.” 

The ECOESC is the only ESC to receive this $500,000 Ohio Department of Education grant and the districts that are participating in the pilots are contributing funds toward the program as well.