In this episode, the notion of values and teaching to the whole child is discussed. The possibility that the experts may be wrong in focusing on racing to the top is bringing up a lot of pain for current and future teachers and leaders. Leaders cannot lead effectively without seeing the humanity and differences in teaching styles or without having to prepare teachers. Many leaders are rushing to fulfill daily tasks and unable to do what is most important, which is to prepare teachers and engage teachers in the process of education of the whole child. Teachers, counselors and support staff need to be freed up to do their job, which is to do what is right for kids.
There are many nuances of school culture discussed in this podcast.The notion of school environment is essential. Enter any school building and within 2 feet of the entrance, you can tell how parents, teachers and kids are treated. When school culture is negative, it permeates the air and bends around every nook and cranny of the school building. When a school has a positive culture, the atmosphere for parents, visitors and all who enter is welcoming, warm, visually appealing and comfortable. Yes, there can be security staff, but they are caring and want to help rather than make the visitor feel like a "stranger". These are just some of the topics covered in this podcast. It feels good to be back. I have a bit of frog in my throat - so to speak but I'm getting over it! Yes, my voice is still a bit off, but I am back in my passion for taking a stand on what matters in schools.
