Byron's Babbles

Ever worked somewhere where what your leading said, or espoused to, and what they did were not the same? I have and it makes for a pretty dysfunctional organization with a toxic environment. I’m reading a great book right now by Lee Bolman and the late Terrence Deal, Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice, and Leadership, 7th Edition. Bolman and Deal suggested that leading by example is more effective than merely giving orders when it comes to fostering team cohesion. “Example not command holds a team together” implies that team members are more likely to be motivated and engaged when they see their leaders embodying the values, work ethic, and behaviors expected of them.

When leaders model the behavior they want to see, it creates a culture of trust and collaboration. Team members feel inspired to emulate these actions rather than feeling compelled to follow commands out of obligation.

Leading a school effectively involves modeling values and behaviors that foster a positive learning environment for both students and staff. Here are some ways this principle can be applied in an education setting:

1. Setting an Example: School leaders, including principals and administrators, should demonstrate the core values of integrity, respect, and responsibility. For instance by addressing issues openly and fairly, they show students and teachers the importance of honesty and transparency. I experienced an example of this recently when I was facilitating a new teacher academy session and all administrators were there taking part in the activities right along with the new teachers.
2. Promoting Collaboration: When leaders actively participate in collaborative efforts—like team meetings or community events—it encourages teachers and staff to engage similarly. This can help to break down silos and create a more cohesive school culture.
3. Encouraging Continuous Learning: Leaders can foster a growth mindset by seeking professional development opportunities themselves. When teachers see their leaders investing in their own learning, they are more likely to pursue growth in their practices as well.
4. Supporting Student Engagement: By being present in classrooms and actively participating in school activities, leaders can demonstrate the importance of student engagement. This encourages teachers to prioritize student involvement in their lessons. This presence is so important and establishes the leader as a leader of learning.
5. Fostering Open Communication: Leaders who practice open dialogue and actively solicit feedback create an atmosphere where everyone feels valued and heard. This sets a tone for respectful communication throughout the school community.
6. Recognizing Achievements: Highlighting both student and staff accomplishments reinforces the importance of hard work and dedication. Celebrating successes, big and small, motivates everyone to strive for excellence.
7. Building Relationships: Taking the time to build strong relationships with both staff and students nurtures a sense of belonging and community. Leaders who are approachable and caring set a standard for interpersonal interactions.

I would love for you to share examples and explore further in other contexts. Please leave your comments.

Today I was reminded of the importance in recognizing and valuing the unique strengths and contributions of each individual we serve. I had the honor of working with teachers today for the Charlotte County Public Schools’ Summer Professional Development Summit Conference at Lemon Bay High School in Englewood, Florida. I have had the honor of partnering with Charlotte County Public Schools for several years and absolutely love their teachers. They are always so engaged and very willing to share their expertise. I was reminded of C. S. Lewis’ teaching that, “there are no ordinary people…” The teachers I worked with today are not ordinary, they are extraordinary.

While working through sessions entitled “Self Care for Educators & Creating Healthy Boundaries” and “Let’s Reach Every Student!” it was very evident these teachers want to be the very best for the students they serve. By acknowledging that no one is ordinary, leaders can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment where every team member feels appreciated and empowered to make a difference. Ultimately this leads to greater collaboration, innovation, and success for the organization.

“there are no ordinary people…” ~ C. S. Lewis

Lewis wanted us to remember that every individual has value and significance, regardless of their circumstances or perceived importance. He believed that each person has the potential to make a difference in the world and should be treated with respect and dignity. It’s a reminder to not underestimate the impact that each individual can have on the world around them.

On Monday, through a collaboration I am doing with Marian University’s Center for Vibrant Schools I was working with the teachers at Trinity Lutheran School. It was a great day of visiting classrooms, coaching, working with teacher leaders, and after-school professional development. As I always say when I am in classrooms I pay most attention to what students are doing. In one class the students engaged me in their activity. The students were working in groups preparing for skits. A student proceeded to ask the teacher if she could ask me to be in the skit. He said yes and the student proceeded to ask me if I would portray Jesus in her group’s skit. I was thrilled and I must say our skit was incredible! Another class was studying the book of Matthew and the teacher had a writing prompt for the students to describe which of the persons in the book of Matthew they could relate to best.

After turning in their short essays the teacher asked them to share out who they had chosen and why they best related to them. One student gave an answer that no one was expecting. He said, “The bystanders because they were there listening and learning.” Pretty insightful for an eighth grader, don’t you think? The teacher and I were both blown away by the insight given by this student. I couldn’t quit thinking about it. The student was right, sometimes we need to take the role of the bystander.

There is definitely a lot to learn from being a bystander. By observing situations from a distance, we can gain valuable insights into how people interact, how conflicts unfold, and how different choices lead to different outcomes. Additionally, in situations where our involvement could escalate a conflict or cause harm, it may be better to observe and not get directly involved. It’s important to assess each situation carefully and consider the potential consequences before deciding whether to take action or stay on the sidelines.

Being a bystander can give us the opportunity to reflect on our own values, beliefs, and biases, and consider how they influence our actions or inaction in certain situations. This can help us develop a better understanding of human behavior and improve our own decision-making skills. Bottom line: sometimes it is best for us to listen, learn, and be a bystander rather than being a major contributor.

Today, while I was in a school working with teachers, I heard some students making “Someday I will…” statements. I love these visionary statements of future plans and goals. There is a great deal of value in young people, and adults alike, pondering thoughts of “Someday I will…” Making these statements can help us set goals, plan for the future, and stay motivated. Envisioning future accomplishments and aspirations, can help the young and old work toward achieving our dreams and making them a reality.

It can also help them stay focused and determined in the face There will always be obstacles and challenges, but our “Someday I will…” statements keep us focused and determined. Thinking about what we want to achieve someday can inspire all of us to grow.