A positive epidemic

Teaching Pre K-8, Nov/Dec 2003 by Cookson, Peter W Jr

How adults treat students and each other sets either a positive or negative tone at school

By now, reality has set in. In the few weeks you've been teaching, you've written lesson plans, organized your classroom, gotten to know your students and, of course, kept those creative juices flowing. You should feel very good about yourself!

Have you noticed, however, that schools are complex organizations? Sociologists have described in detail how the interacting personalities inside a school set the academic climate for students. How adults treat students and each other sets the tone for good or for ill.

I'm sure some of your colleagues and administrators aren't the easiest people in the world to get along with. Indifference, burnout, rudeness, whatever the reason, some of those with whom we work are not good team players and can sometimes say and do things that are hurtful.

What to do?

First. Don't take negative behavior personally. When someone acts out we have a natural response to react in kind. The truth is that most people who don't have a positive attitude are their own worst enemies and should be helped, not attacked.

Second. The 1,000 mile journey to becoming a "real" professional begins with self discipline. If we aren't disciplined in our relationships with others we can never be fully professional. But what does this mean on a day-to-day basis? It means never confusing the person with the problem and avoiding self-pity at all costs.

Third. Avoid situations that are "no-winners." For instance, the assistant principal has just stopped you in the hall to let you know you forgot to file a very important form. Do you defend yourself and proclaim your guilt? Do you become angry and score a point over your boss? It's best to stick to the facts, be polite and decide then and there to make sure this individual doesn't rain on your parade anymore.

Last. Be proud, but not arrogant. Difficult people feed off of others' weaknesses. Be strong, independent, but always willing to see the point of view of the other. Trust your instincts and never, never doubt your abilities.

Schools and students suffer when adults are unreasonable and difficult. You have the chance to create a positive, warm and academic climate at your school. Start an epidemic of positiveness and even the difficult people will discover that working at a school is the most privileged job in the world.

Peter W. Cookson, Jr. is the founder of TCinnovations and the Dean of the Graduate School of Education at Lewis & Clark College. He is also founder of the Center for Educational Outreach & Innovation at Teachers College.