3.  When the persons who have responsibility and resources for addressing the problem are committed to resolving it  When the problem warrants the effort and resources required to make significant change  When you have sufficient information to begin the process

4.  Identify the Problem  Gather Information  Clarify the Concern  Reach Agreement on Problem  Stay Away From Blame

5.  Brainstorm Possible Solutions  Generate as many solutions as possible  Be creative  Avoid Judgment  Evaluate Possible Solutions  Discuss fesability  Person implementing must agree  Which solution would have most positive results

6.  Choose a Solution  Be sure of consensus  Set a time-line  Assign Responsibilities  Write an Action Plan  Establish Evaluation Plan  Plan for Follow-up

7. Classroom specific problem solving Involves educators seeking strategies that will impact the success of the whole class, academically and/or behaviorally Examples include addressing classroom curricular, discipline and/or attendance issues School wide problem- solving involves addressing a systemic issue that affects the entire staff and student body One example might be developing a math or literacy curriculum for the school that is in need of improvement

8.  Divide into groups of four and select one group member to be the problem identifier.  This person is to describe a specific problem (real or fictitious) that he or she is encountering with a student.  The other members must identify their role (i.e. special educator, parent, administrator, colleague,etc.  Through discussion and asking questions, try to determine whether this is more a school-wide or a classroom-specific problem.  Follow the problem-solving steps, using the attached form.