Monday Moanin Thoughts #272 Develop A Positive Culture By Working Together

Happy October 16, 2017 and here is wishing you all a great Monday Moanin. Last weekend I was with my family in Traverse City for our annual northern Michigan trip. Though a little wet, it was a spectacular time. The colors were beautiful, the air was crisp, the weather still cooperated, the food was great, and our day trip up Mission Pointe was a highlight. Getting away provided the perfect time for me to reflect on my work over the last few months. I am blessed to meet with so many talented educators that are successful in leading their schools and communities. Effective leaders have a lot in common and share many characteristics. Getting their staff to work hard, find common ground, and encourage them to work together is critical to establishing a culture that is focused first on student learning. I work with many teams that are building this culture in their buildings. Listed below are three ideas or quotes from Paul Bambrick-Santoyo that can help you guide your work this week and help you establish this collaborative, student centered culture. They are:

“Student culture is not formed by motivational speeches or statements of values. It is formed by repeated practice—using every minute of every day to build good habits. From opening morning routines to the final bell, students receive a constant message that nothing is as important—and engaging—as learning.”

“Great staff cultures don’t come from irreplicable charisma; they come from a consistent number of tiny actions that create a strong foundation. From hiring to onboarding to daily interactions, exceptional leaders keep their ear to the rail to ensure a positive, joyful, strong staff community.”

“Without great culture, student learning cannot thrive.”

Have a great week, keep finding the good stuff, as you continue to build your positive culture.