The idea that “culture eats strategy for lunch”, is a quote most often attributed to Peter Drucker and has spurred plenty of conversation about the importance of culture in any organization. Within the educational context, it’s quite simple. A commitment to a culture of continuous improvement determines the success of student learning.
Schools that embrace this commitment have the following attributes:
1. Everyone shares collective responsibility for the success of all students served by the school, particularly the newest teachers.
2. Leaders are models and advocates for learning. They show the learning community their commitment to life long learning every day.
3. Data drives improvement and decision making at every level.
4. Professional learning is grounded in evidence; aligned to individual, team, and system goals; driven by protocols, and personalized.
5. Educators have immediate access to classroom-based support virtually and on site at all times.
Creating a healthy school culture is a vital part of the work that educators must do if students are going to achieve at high levels. Teachers matter, and what they DO matters most.
How has the importance of school culture played out in your world?
Larry Walsh, Educational Specialist 