School Culture Matters

Our head of school, Gregg Pinick, recently launched a video series titled, Concordia Culture Concepts (C3). Every two weeks he publishes a short video for our staff to reflect on. Gregg's overarching message is: Culture Matters. His clear and relevant videoettes encourage me to reconsider the importance of a school's culture. I remember a favorite grad course all about a leader's role in developing and sustaining a positive school culture. 

When I think of school culture, I think of:

- the feeling I have when I walk up and down the hallways. Is excitement generated? Is there energy?

- the people I interact with on a daily basis. Teachers, parents, and students. Even janitors and cafeteria workers. Are our interactions positive? Or do they at least end in a positive way?

- how do visitors feel when visiting our school? Welcomed? Warm?

- are students smiling, having a good time? 

- are parents involved? What is the typical support level?

That's all I have for now. Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours.

Wayne

Funny Homework Cartoons

"Strict, but fun."

"Strict, but fun." This is how several kids have described me to others this year. Don't worry kids, I have just as much fun as you. And some days I think I have more fun. #loveschool #lovekids

"I don't know what to think!"

We are reading the engaging "There's a boy in the girl's bathroom."

Here is a short excerpt:

         Colleen asked "So what should I do?" 

         "You want me to tell you whom to invite to your birthday party?" replied the counselor.

         "Lori says you're good at solving problems." 

         "Lori solves her own problems. I just help her think for herself."

         "But I don't know what to think!" Colleen exclaimed.

When a read this passage I immediately thought of a recent conversation with my wife, Misty. We talked about what we want our kids, Livia and Liam, to leave our home with. When they graduate from high school, what knowledge and skills do we want them to have? Would a high GPA and fantastic SAT scores make us proud parents? 

We discussed how we want Livia and Liam to leave with two skills: 1.) Responsibility and 2.) The ability to think, to make wise decisions. If they left with these two skills we would be very proud parents, even if they had a B average and average SAT scores. We believe that responsibility and strong thinking skills would get them far in life. 

May Livia or Liam rarely say, "I don't know what to think!"

With something to think about, this is Mr. Russell. Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours.

Image credit: scholastic.com

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