Creating a Positive School Culture: A Guide for Teachers
Transitioning from the role of a classroom teacher to that of a teacher leader and coach can be quite a challenging experience. While I was well-versed in teaching English language arts to students, I quickly realized that effective communication with adults required a different set of skills. I embarked on workshops and courses focused on facilitation and coaching, but I am still learning how to be a professional in a learning community, balancing the roles of a group member and a leader every day.
The Importance of Voice in Communication
The use of voice in collaboration, coaching, facilitation, and leadership is a crucial aspect that I emphasize in my consulting work. Every leader and teacher engages in communication daily, making it essential to master this skill. While it’s understandable that educators prioritize content knowledge and pedagogy, neglecting the development of communication skills, dispositions, and mindsets as a professional learner within a community can hinder both educators and students.
Collective Efficacy in Schools
Collective efficacy, defined as the collective self-perception that teachers in a school can make an educational difference to their students beyond the impact of their homes and communities, is a fundamental concept in education. It presupposes that teachers, when united, can have a significant impact on student achievement. Research presented by John Hattie at the 2016 Visible Learning Conference highlighted that collective efficacy is the most influential factor in student achievement, surpassing student expectations, feedback, and teacher-student relationships. Thus, fostering a sense of trust and belief in the competence of colleagues is crucial for creating a positive school culture.
Building Trust through Communication
Creating a climate of trust within a school community is essential for promoting collaboration and enhancing student outcomes. Authors like Peter DeWitt and Anthony Muhammad emphasize the importance of school climate and culture in fostering positive relationships. Just as psychologist and author Harriet Lerner suggests, the way we use our voices can shape the quality of our relationships and influence the world around us. Therefore, it’s crucial to be mindful of how we communicate to build trust and foster a supportive learning environment.
Effective Communication Strategies for Teachers
To cultivate quality relationships and promote a positive school culture, educators can implement the following communication strategies:
1. Active Listening: Instead of dominating conversations, focus on listening attentively to colleagues’ perspectives and ideas.
2. Thoughtful Responses: Avoid making conversations solely about yourself or immediately jumping to solutions. Allow space for colleagues to explore their thoughts and find solutions on their own.
3. Mindful Tone: Pay attention to your tone of voice, as it can impact how your message is received. Avoid sounding cold or judgmental, as it can strain relationships.
4. Patience in Questioning: When asking questions, give colleagues ample time to respond. Just as we provide students with wait time, extending the same courtesy to colleagues can enhance communication and collaboration.
Creating a Learning Culture for Student Growth
Developing a learning culture that prioritizes student growth requires educators to reflect on how they communicate with one another. By being intentional about using voice effectively, educators can foster a supportive environment where collaboration thrives and student outcomes improve. Remember, the way we communicate can shape the future of our students and our school community.