Welcome to the New IDEA Blog series Volume 2
I have been working with a school district here in NH which has seen an increase in disrespectful behavior over the past few years. The district asked me to help them with strategies for increasing the district’s focus on the value of Humanity – one of its Portrait of a Graduate 6 values.
The district describes “Humanity” as understanding “I have an important role in the world and my contributions and actions will impact others. I demonstrate an understanding of the systems that shape the past, present, and how I can be part of shaping the future. I am able to recognize the impacts others have on me and my impact on others”. Interestingly, this is the same value espoused by many organizations in other industries. And they too have the same challenges creating a culture that lives into that value.
In a recent meeting, the School Board identified several challenges in improving the district’s focus on humanity. Let’s explore these challenges and potential solutions.
Staffing and Workload Constraints
There is a lack of staffing and overworked teachers are significant hurdles. To address this:
– Prioritize hiring for critical positions related to the humanity focus
– Implement efficient time management strategies for existing staff
– Consider partnerships with local organizations or volunteers to support initiatives
Scope and Systemic Analysis
The Board has limited scope and lack of systemic analysis. Thus, it feels it does not have sufficient information to truly understand the issues and know what actions will likely be effective. To overcome this:
– Conduct a comprehensive review of current practices and their alignment with humanity goals
– Establish a dedicated task force to analyze and address systemic issues
– Set clear, measurable objectives for improving the humanity aspect of education
Communication and Collaboration
Information is not spread widely or quickly enough. Improving communication between school staff, teachers, parents, and the community is crucial. Steps to enhance this include:
– Organizing regular town halls or forums to discuss the Portrait of a Graduate
– Utilizing digital platforms for ongoing communication and feedback
– Creating cross-functional teams to foster collaboration and idea-sharing
Financial Constraints
The Board has limited ability to impact revenues. Creative solutions can be explored:
– Seek grant opportunities specifically for humanity-focused educational initiatives
– Explore community partnerships for resource-sharing
– Implement cost-effective programs that align with humanity goals
Resistance to Change
People in the district and community have entrenched perceptions about changing the culture so are resistant to change. Overcoming this resistance to change is vital. Strategies include:
– Showcasing success stories from other districts with similar initiatives
– Providing professional development focused on the importance of humanity in education
– Engaging skeptics in the planning process to address their concerns
Bridging Socioeconomic Divides
Parents and students can be thought of as the “customers of the district’s services”. Those customers who are better off (the “haves”) do not feel the need to put an emphasis on the humanities focus – which improves the lot of the “have nots”. To address the “Haves versus Have Nots” factions:
– Implement inclusive programs that benefit all students regardless of socioeconomic status
– Provide equal opportunities for all students to participate in humanity-focused activities
– Foster a school culture that values diversity and promotes empathy
Combating Apathy
Many parents feel they send their children to school and should not have to be involved in creating improving the culture. Many people in the district and community just accept things are fine the way they are thinking they cannot improve the way students treat each other or that it is possible to change overall behavior. To overcome apathy:
– Highlight the long-term benefits of the humanity focus for students and the community
– Celebrate small wins and progress to maintain momentum
– Engage students in the process, allowing them to drive some initiatives
By addressing these challenges systematically, any organization can make significant strides in enhancing its culture. But it will take time. As the saying goes, “A million baby steps still amount to forward progress”. With persistence and collaboration, meaningful change is possible. Discuss…
Happy Holidays!
James