Change Begins When Educators are Willing to Change

In my experience as an educator, administrator, and board member, I have come to a perhaps controversial conclusion: the problem in our educational system isn't the children. Too often, deficiencies, behaviors, and the economic and societal challenges that students bring to school are blamed. However, as a former Dean, current board member, and 8th-grade ELA teacher, I believe the real issue lies with the adults in the educational buildings our students attend.

There is a pervasive energy in these buildings that, if left unchecked, threatens to implant in our students' minds that consequences are non-existent, that speaking negatively about colleagues is professionally acceptable, that rules are selectively followed, that leadership is merely a title rather than a call to influence and empower, and that excellence in performance is optional, not a standard.

It is disheartening to witness the hiring and retention of educators who engage in gossip about students or each other, who hold the belief that certain students are incapable of learning and progressing, and who lack real-world experiences that could otherwise help relate to, engage, and elevate student achievement.

True change requires a willingness to transform from within. It starts with us, the educators and leaders in education, to model the standards and values we expect to instill in our students.

Education extends beyond unpacking standards, facilitating professional learning communities, and holding degrees that certify expertise in specific subjects. True education involves a continuous evolution of knowledge through applied experience, leveraging our personal stories to authentically relate to, connect with, and empower our students toward their unique paths.

I have served in districts where the departure of talented teachers from their schools was not due to a lack of commitment or passion. Rather, it was the result of the environment created by other teachers and leaders—environments where negativity and stagnation overshadowed the potential to foster profound growth in the minds, hearts, and souls of students.

As educators, it is crucial to introspect and pose a challenging question to ourselves: "If I were to be filmed throughout my day in the school, would the footage reveal me as a source of negativity, or as a force driving our students, school, and community forward?"

Three Actions to Foster a True Culture of Collaboration, Love, and Togetherness in Our Schools

Embrace Each Other’s Stories:

Dedicate time to genuinely understand the purpose, background, and experiences of your colleagues. Focus on discovering similarities rather than differences. Whether you are a veteran educator with a decade of experience or a newcomer with just a few months, there is always something valuable to learn from one another. Often, we rush to critique or highlight differences as shortcomings, rather than exploring how these unique approaches could positively impact our students. The goal is not to conform to personal preferences but to determine what is best for our students and the community. What might initially seem unfamiliar or unconventional could potentially be what education truly needs. It’s crucial to approach these differences with an open mind, considering their potential to enhance student outcomes and community well-being. Our role as educators is not to seek personal approval but to challenge the status quo, enhance educational systems, and uplift our communities. This requires setting aside personal pride and biases to collaboratively identify and implement what is most effective for our students, even if it challenges our own experiences or expectations.

Embrace Challenges and Accountability:

Often, we gravitate towards relationships with those who share our views and habits, but true growth comes from engaging with individuals who challenge us to evolve. Seek out colleagues who are not just critics of the current systems but are actively involved in constructing meaningful policies and practices. Avoid participating in gossip or spreading misinformation, as these actions do not contribute positively to the educational environment or our students' development.

It's vital to establish connections with those committed to nurturing a constructive atmosphere. If you find yourself needing to vent or seeking advice, turn to a mentor within your institution. Seek counsel that offers a new perspective or challenges your views rather than simply validating your frustrations. This approach ensures that we foster an environment where positive influence, rather than negativity and personal grievances, flourishes—ultimately impacting our students' experiences and growth positively.

Celebrate Your Uniqueness and Diversify Your Impact:

In education, while degrees are often the standard measure of qualification, the broader world values results, relationships, and innovation. Consider what unique experiences you bring to the table beyond your academic credentials. Perhaps your world travels could enrich the social studies curriculum, or your entrepreneurial background could inspire practical applications in your lessons. Maybe your personal challenges resonate with students facing similar obstacles, fostering deeper connections.

Your unique story has the power to engage students' hearts, making them feel seen and understood. This connection can motivate them to strive harder and invest in their educational journey. As an educator, your role extends beyond teaching; you are a guide who empowers students to envision and shape their futures. Embrace and share your distinct experiences to create meaningful and lasting impacts in your students' lives.

Reimagining Our Educational Environment

Our education system faces fundamental challenges, as the spirits of educators are continually burdened by increased workloads, reduced pay, and limited opportunities beyond the classroom. It is essential to eliminate the negativity that can spread within our schools, undermining the positive environments we strive to create for our students.

Let's commit to building genuine communities that feel like family—where support is real, and backstabbing is nonexistent. We must foster environments where students are excited to attend and excel, places that prioritize empathy and connection, allowing us to engage with each other's stories without letting our personal struggles interfere with our educational mission.

I am dedicated to enhancing the experiences of educators, students, and school environments. By starting with heart, we open the door to meaningful connections, engagement, and transformative change. If you are interested in collaborating and want to see how I can work with your students, teachers, or staff this summer or in the upcoming year, please fill out this form, and our team will contact you.