Locking Horns vs. Linking Arms…The Choice Is Ours - Brief Article

School Administrator, May, 1996 by Donald R. Thompson

We take a lot of pride in our schools, and we should. Every day dedicated teachers, administrators, and support staff are running at warp speed, fully committed to preparing today's children for the rigors of tomorrow.

Why, then, do people have the audacity to complain, to question what we're doing in the classroom, and suggest systemwide reforms? Their pleadings often seem out of place, considering the blood, sweat, and tears we pour into educating children.

Sometimes, we lose patience and immediately jump to the defense, not realizing that our defensiveness is seen as a roadblock. Too much defensiveness is a sign that the wagons are being circled, that we simply aren't interested in the concerns of those we serve. You might ask, "If we don't defend ourselves, who will?"

I have some suggestions:

First, take the initiative. Announce your standards for making decisions. One standard might be that an idea or approach must help kids, not hurt them. Another standard, when you are addressing issues centered on public and private schools, might be a level playing field.

Second, admit that even successful schools must constantly improve to meet the demands of a fast-changing world.

Third, arm yourself with the facts about your school system, as well as schools across the nation and around the world. Then, share that information with the community.

Fourth, learn from the reformers. Granted, not all unsolicited ideas are sound. However, rejecting recommendations out-of-hand could mean you miss an idea that would make a positive difference.

Fifth, look for gaps in your communication and in the performance of school programs. All organizations have blind spots in their communication. If people want information, fill the gap. Better yet, ask people what they want and need to know through surveys, advisory groups, and other channels. If parents or other community members have a concern about a program, thank them for their comments and let them know that we can always do better. In short, listen first.

Sixth, remember that you have a choice. You can become known as an intellectual leader in your community or as an obstructionist.

Seventh, consider parents, community, staff, board members, legislators, governors, business leaders, and others as partners in education. Let them know regularly what your expectations are for them and that their understanding and support are crucial in providing the best possible education for kids.

Rather than locking horns, we should be linking arms. Educating future generations is too big a job for us to accomplish alone. Reach out, and always remember that the absence of speaking out and taking action is complacency. Would you rather serve a community where people care enough to make their case or one where people simply don't care?

As you read this issue of The School Administration, you'll find legions of facts and ideas that will help you take the initiative for education in your community, state, and nation.