It's quite possible that my last post hit a nerve. I received some incredible feedback about ways that educators put kids first and evade ridiculous rules.
However, one particular idea kept resurfacing:
The existence of institutional myths.
Sadly, the myths you shared seemed to be much stickier than unicorns or strawberry cows.
They included:
However, one particular idea kept resurfacing:
The existence of institutional myths.
Sadly, the myths you shared seemed to be much stickier than unicorns or strawberry cows.
They included:
- Myths about "what we have to teach"
- Myths about what "being in control" looks like in the classroom
- Myths about "why he/she is in education"
If teachers don't feel the implicit trust granted to a true professional, then they are likely to hang on to outdated compliance-based measures. This hurts kids. It hurts adults. It hurts organizations.
So, reach out and TRUST someone today.
If you're a teacher, trust your administrator to give you a straight answer when you ask him/her why a policy or procedure is in place. If you're an administrator, trust your teachers to help you make good choices for kids and communicate clearly about your expectations. If you're a superintendent, trust your principals to personalize policies to their buildings and situations.
How will you trust today? Let me know in the comments.
CC Photo Credits:
Unicorn by Enokson
Strawberry Cow by Jason Tromm
CC Photo Credits:
Unicorn by Enokson
Strawberry Cow by Jason Tromm
I am fortunate in that I work in a great environment with competent administration. I know that I can look to them for honest and constructive feedback. I know that I can look to them for ideas and direction and support.
ReplyDeleteI forgot to add, I trust my colleagues - to be professionals and hold the best interests of students at the primary motivator of us all.
ReplyDeleteJennifer, thank you so much for your comments. I love hearing from educators who feel trusted in their learning journey alongside students. Thanks for reading!
Delete