Given the choice, any of us prefer a positive atmosphere at work. Who wouldn't want to work in a productive place that is emotionally comfortable, has a low stress-level, and where one feels valued?
Administrators in the Jefferson City Public School District, along with leadership teams of teachers from each school in the district, took part in two days of enlightening discussion and training on that topic and others on June 11-12.
A good school climate is vitally important because of its direct impact on students and student learning.
The training sessions in June were facilitated by educator and author Dr. Anthony Muhammad. They were a part of an annual summer retreat for JCPS administrators.
Muhammad has done extensive research about the benefits of a healthy school climate; he met previously with all JCPS teachers and administrators on January 2-3.
Many of the principles that he spoke about in June were directed to schools and school districts, but they apply equally well to any business or any organization. Muhammad is very good at communicating insights in an inspiring manner.
He said in any line of work frustrations develop and it is everyone's responsibility to manage those frustrations in a productive manner. He made it clear that in schools it is particularly important that adults take the lead to establish a good climate for the sake of the students.
Here are some key points Muhammad shared.
Everyone within an organization should align their philosophies. There should be a consensus on this so everyone understands where they are headed and why.
There should be an established healthy culture within the organization. Muhammad said a healthy culture has problem-solvers but an unhealthy one is made up of complainers. "Adult drama," he said, "comes from improperly processed frustration." Voicing a frustration or a complaint is not a problem. Failing to seek a solution is. "How will we manage it?" Muhammad asked. "We must go beyond talking and do something about it."
Communication is vital. Individuals must be provided facts and information about what must take priority. In addition, everyone on a staff should have a chance to provide feedback.
Those in charge can take the lead in cultivating healthy and productive relationships between individuals. Developing an atmosphere of understanding and trust is very important. "Can you have critical conversations?" Muhammad asked. "If something isn't addressed openly, it is being discussed elsewhere. We must have a safe forum for people to disagree."
Leaders have an obligation to provide support and resources and also to hold everyone accountable to clearly stated expectations. To be vague about what is important creates uncertainty at work, lowers morale, and diminishes the level of success.
Finally, an organization or a school with a positive work environment and a healthy interchange of ideas is one in which individuals can maximize their results by working in collaborative teams, which is very important in the work world of the 21st century. "We've been accustomed to working independently," Muhammad said, "but we need to work in teams. We are going to have to create a culture where we are comfortable working together rather than separately."
David Wilson, EdD, is the associate principal at Jefferson City High School. You may e-mail him at [email protected].