#iaedchat Archive
Run by Iowa educators, #IAedchat is on Twitter the first, second, and third Sundays each month at 8:00pm CST. We have added #IAedchat LIVE to the fourth Sunday of the month at 8:00pm CST. This will take place in Google Hangout on Air. We will share the invitation and link to #IAedchat LIVE each month.
Sunday August 14, 2016
Good evening & welcome everyone! My tweets for the next hour are dedicated to
.
Good evening & welcome to ! I’m excited about the next hour of learning about school culture - one of my favorite topics!
Our topic is “School Culture: Starting off your year on the right step”
Your co-moderators for tonight’s are and
Your co-moderators for tonight’s are and
Take a moment to introduce yourself, your role in schools, and where you are tweeting from tonight.
Good evening! Derek, MS Social Studies at South Tama MS. Ready to rock the new school year, starting tomorrow!
Erik Buchholz principal of WHS in Washington, IA. Looking forward to a great iaedchat!
Good evening everyone! Steven, a Middle School Assistant Principal from Missouri
In South Dakota - former elementary principal - now work with schools in school improvement
Good evening, , Dan Butler, principal of in .
Andrea - Curriculum PD Leader and Instructional Coach at Benton CSD. It’s always a great pleasure to learn with you on .
Hello , Paul, principal in Hendricks, MN.
Clint Heitz, Instructional Tech Coach joining from Bettendorf, IA.
Stole my wife's iPad to join. 😋
Good evening Tim, elementary principal from suburbs of Chicago.
Hi everyone! Heather Abney, HS principal from VA checking in for a bit!
Jon, 5th grade teacher at South Tama
There he is! Been awhile, my man. Welcome!
Colin Wikan...Dean of Students at Bettendorf HS. Tweeting at you from Bettendorf, Iowa!
thanks for having me and moderating another exciting
Hello! The summer hiatus is coming to an end! Great to see you guys!
I am the teacher librarian at Walcott K-8 School in eastern iowa - I am excited to start the year right and discuss with
South Tama MS represented well tonight!
Erika- 4th grade teacher and Data Team Leader at Benton CSD - First timer!
Ann, instructional coach, Kenwood Leadership Academy, Cedar Rapids
Good to see you again, Ann! Welcome.
Hey, Andrea! Just got done creeping on . :-) Had to jump in on this convo, though.
Welcome Erika and thanks for joining in...did force you? https://t.co/RRMxnLpAWq
Erika- 4th grade teacher and Data Team Leader at Benton CSD - First timer!
Hey ! Nick, elementary principal with Cedar Rapids CSD at Jackson Elementary
Rob, superintendent, from
Brett from Osky, 6th Math, Sci, Soc Studies. Awesome to be here.
We have an excellent group tonight on ! Q1 is coming up in one minute.
Charlie Folsom - Instructional Coach at Waukee High School
Welcome, Rob! Great to meet you a couple of weeks ago at !
Q1: What is your definition of a healthy school culture?
You as well Dan! Looking forward to the conversation.
A1: A place where Ss and Ts are running into your school, not out
Good Evening! Lynette Elementary Principal in Texas
Ed Ventura Library Teacher
A: A school where Ss want to come, Ps want to send their kids, and Ts want to work.
A1: A culture where it is okay to take risks, failing is encouraged, and classroom happenings are celebrated daily.
Hi everyone. Start of the school year is always my favorite! Shaelynn from Conrad! Just back from an awesome weekend.
Kids can't wait to get to school and neither can the staff!
Welcome Lynette...we are glad you could join us!
A1: Where positive direction and attitude is had by all (T's, Ss, etc) - drama kept to min https://t.co/u84zfu6jMV
Q1: What is your definition of a healthy school culture?
A1 The mission of best serving kids is never lost in sight. Each adult buys into their part in making that a reality
A1: A place where you can see & feel that Ss are the center. Clear mission, vision, values, goals that guide the work.
A1 Healthy SC is where Ts enjoy their work and Ss love coming to School.
Love! https://t.co/18Q7uv60cw
A1: A culture where it is okay to take risks, failing is encouraged, and classroom happenings are celebrated daily.
A1: Healthy school culture = feels safe to disagree and does it respectfully, learns together, builds each other up, empowers e/o.
Good evening friends! Todd from NY joining late!😀
Hey, hey, hey! Glad you’re here, ! https://t.co/2Li52Ehzo1
Hi everyone. Start of the school year is always my favorite! Shaelynn from Conrad! Just back from an awesome weekend.
A1 Ss first mindset. A focus on building sound relationships among all stakeholders. Celebrating daily successes in your school.
Well said!
Good to see you tonight!
A1-Healthy Culture -Ts AND Ss r safe, supported, empowered. Ts AND Ss want to learn & lead. Ps r welcome. Relationships r valued
thanks gf! Hope you are well.
A1: A school where students come first. It is a place that you can feel the care. A place where everyone is working together.
A1 healthy school culture is a growth mindset where Ss and Ts are always willing to learn and keep trying
A1. A place where everyone is accepted, ideas are shared, and leaders are developed!
totally agree about the celebration piece.
A1: Common language and mission exists. Everyone is valued and part of something bigger than themselves.
Love it, ! Relationships are key, and students must be first. https://t.co/Zgj2ucrXs5
A1 Ss first mindset. A focus on building sound relationships among all stakeholders. Celebrating daily successes in your school.
A1 Strong relationships that allow the needs of students to be in the forefront of all decisions.
https://t.co/WQ9I5AVoEs
Q1: What is your definition of a healthy school culture?
Great to join in, thanks!
A1:Where all stakeholders want to be a positive part of the school community.
A1: every person views his or herself as a leader. People learn, laugh, and lead together.
A1 Where the mission is to "get better every day". Students and staff.
It has to be a focal point of your school. Celebrate any and all successes of Ss and staff!
Yes! Ts and Ss should both be learning and growing from failures / struggles. https://t.co/OLj8XpuWJa
A1 healthy school culture is a growth mindset where Ss and Ts are always willing to learn and keep trying
Students first my man!...I love it! https://t.co/EdHAaNJOV0
A1: A school where students come first. It is a place that you can feel the care. A place where everyone is working together.
30 sec assessment of your school: walk in the doors & answer, “How do I know by what I see that kids & learning are the priority?”
A1: clear message, ALL are celebrated, ALL are safe, ALL of us collectively are smarter than us as individuals
It’s easy to think that SC is driven by just Ts and Admin. It’s parents, community, and Ss, as well! https://t.co/TrGFc84WUz
A1:Where all stakeholders want to be a positive part of the school community.
A1.2: If you want a dipstick of the culture, follow the principal around for 5 minutes and see how they interact with others.
A1- a place where everyone, admins, teachers and students, strives to improve every day!
Exactly, everyone is communicating and telling the same story
A1: A place where all adults focus on S's & building positive relationship w/ S's. Everything else seems to then fall into place
A1+: Remember that ALL students are OUR students. Every student can succeed with the right supports.
A1 Where all stake holders are involved in the decision-making, social events
We are rolling right along! Q2 coming up in one minute.
Q2: Why is school culture such an important piece when thinking about what makes up the body of a school?
that is such a powerful statement. Makes me think of what I am doing and how I interact with Ts, Ss, Ps.
Smartest person is "the room", yes! https://t.co/pVLtpfyNOP
A1: clear message, ALL are celebrated, ALL are safe, ALL of us collectively are smarter than us as individuals
A1: one that is accepting of new staff readily. One that flexes to meet the needs of its members. Always learning and growing.
Hearing conversations between staff and students is a sign of a healthy culture. I like hearing laughter.
Common goal: Get better. https://t.co/yP5ZutobEt
A1- a place where everyone, admins, teachers and students, strives to improve every day!
A2: Because if we don't focus on school culture, we might as well not waste our time focusing on anything else.
This is a great point. If Ss are afraid and admin unwilling to acknowledge means culture is not healthy https://t.co/xIZz74MuKu
A1.2: If you want a dipstick of the culture, follow the principal around for 5 minutes and see how they interact with others.
A2: School Culture has an effect on everything,everyone is greatly affected by their environment good or bad
As says: Culture always wins.
Right on Clint...great example of it takes a village! https://t.co/xDkbsfZSiW
A1+: Remember that ALL students are OUR students. Every student can succeed with the right supports.
A2: School culture: You can’t see it or feel it, but you know it’s there. It’s the beating heart of a school.
A2: Your culture sets the tone when people enter your building. If it does not promote learning & growth it will not happen.
I have been so excited about the community I am in now, as the new Principal, agencies and others welcoming me
Q2 right here!
https://t.co/1kvJAqV1nI
Q2: Why is school culture such an important piece when thinking about what makes up the body of a school?
Slowly culture is established in each building. With every interaction, conversation, decision. https://t.co/TvS6IPzF2b
that is such a powerful statement. Makes me think of what I am doing and how I interact with Ts, Ss, Ps.
A2 A positive school culture means that everyone is there for each other and learning is paramount. https://t.co/paTCVbkcEs
Q2: Why is school culture such an important piece when thinking about what makes up the body of a school?
A2: it drives the achievement and success you find in ALL that is done there https://t.co/JDmzDKcOh0
Q2: Why is school culture such an important piece when thinking about what makes up the body of a school?
A2 School culture can either get in the way or help fuel a school's ability to meet the needs of all students
A2) A positive school culture has a lasting impact on all who are a part of it. Academically, behaviorally and emotionally.
A2 The right Culture is what gives T's and S's permission to try and to fail and to try again.
Amen! How does s/he prioritize time to make Ss the center!? https://t.co/j0jbFbSwqA
A1.2: If you want a dipstick of the culture, follow the principal around for 5 minutes and see how they interact with others.
A2. A positive school culture can transform a school. I spent the first 6 mos as principal building relationships and listening!
A2: Part of it is simple psychology...Maslow stuff. People need to feel safe and a sense of belonging https://t.co/WDuZJCIzbQ
First timer on Excited to learn from all of you!
We have to provide the best environment possible for our students and staff because https://t.co/Rz3z8WfzgI
A2: School Culture has an effect on everything,everyone is greatly affected by their environment good or bad
A2 Culture before content. W/o a healthy culture it is very difficult to have an effective school. It all starts w/ relationships.
A2: Culture serves as the foundation of optimal learning. If it is unhealthy, everything else is so difficult. If healthy, we win.
A2 W/out a healthy school culture there won't be any traction with initiatives. It is about the relationships.
A2: culture impacts everything. Students lose if the culture isn't in a good place
A2:
Culture guides behaviors. Change of behavior affects real sustained change.
Absolute Thoth! https://t.co/xIcokANkeX
A2 Culture before content. W/o a healthy culture it is very difficult to have an effective school. It all starts w/ relationships.
From - A student "body" grows out of love when everybody feels like who they are means something!
A2: Too many barriers exist when culture is poor. Much more difficult for Ss to accomplish greatness
A2 culture is important because it creates a common bond and unity - Ss and Ts are all part of an exceptional learning space
Right. Here.
https://t.co/jxTn4B9h7N
A2 Culture before content. W/o a healthy culture it is very difficult to have an effective school. It all starts w/ relationships.
A2) We want students and staff to want to come to school. Positive culture drives that.
A2+ School Culture makes that 1st impression, the lasting effect, &the fond memories. Learning sticks when we make true connection
A2: it dictates the health of the school community. It is what people sense when they come into the bulldog. The "feel".
Yes! Love it! Especially the idea of how culture impacts students.
Joining late from steamy Massachusetts. Brian, HS principal and friend to .
Impossible for both S and T to succeed to their true potential. https://t.co/kYYwuLVKaJ
A2: Too many barriers exist when culture is poor. Much more difficult for Ss to accomplish greatness
A2.2 Will you ever hear a S say years later: "I really loved that math instruction." No, u will hear, "They cared about me."
A2) A positive school culture is the foundation for positive academic outcomes, but so much more.
THIS!! https://t.co/aXDrASgyfS
A2+ School Culture makes that 1st impression, the lasting effect, &the fond memories. Learning sticks when we make true connection
A positive school culture focuses on what can be done instead of what can't be done.
you have done a great job,have seen your posts with kiddos! hope to follow in your footsteps!
Boom! https://t.co/lQm80i7gSQ
A2 Culture before content. W/o a healthy culture it is very difficult to have an effective school. It all starts w/ relationships.
Sorry for the late entrance - Trista from Cedar Rapids, IA elementary principal.
Better late than never. Glad to have you in !
Q3: How do we involve ALL STAKEHOLDERS in the foundational aspects of building a positive school culture?
A2: The culture has an impact on everything...achievement, staff morale, community support, etc
A2: it clears the way for the important thing, time to focus on Ss learning, w/o trivial distractions
A2 Without a positive, strong culture, nothing organic can thrive and sustain.
Isn't this the truth. https://t.co/vykYS0gPXM
A2+ School Culture makes that 1st impression, the lasting effect, &the fond memories. Learning sticks when we make true connection
A3: Communication is key! Don't wait until conferences or probs to involve parents! Get Ss involved ASAP w/ meaningful activities!
A3 Easy, treat them as valued members and react to their needs. They WILL come.
absolutely. Culture eats strategy for breakfast.
A3 - Teachers must reach out to parents where they are- twitter and Instagram are it for me this year!
A3 Social Media is huge for this! Celebrate your school and tell your story through social media. Communication is essential.
Can’t grow w/o a strong foundation! https://t.co/I0kFPwUzSM
A2 Without a positive, strong culture, nothing organic can thrive and sustain.
A3: Maintain an open door policy & invite stakeholders into your building. Hold open houses & share your message on SM.
A2: Culture of school is like relationships built w/Ss in a classroom. Without healthy culture/relationships, nothing else matters
A3: You've got to hear from parents, students, community - surveys are a great way to get feedback on improvements.
A3: Use social networking to communicate the great things going on in our schools
BAM ===>
Ten points for Gryffindor and cheers to ! https://t.co/NZktVbfUPb
A1.2: If you want a dipstick of the culture, follow the principal around for 5 minutes and see how they interact with others.
Great way to create a positive brand for your learning environment, too! https://t.co/NrsWZkZWOt
A3 Social Media is huge for this! Celebrate your school and tell your story through social media. Communication is essential.
A3 engaging the community as often as possible. Sharing your story. Seeking feedback on a regular basis.
A3 Communication Communication Communication - we need to promote more positive ways to interact with Ss and parents
A3: Find a way to engage every person-student and teacher in something that they excel in. Personalization.
A3:ask everyone for input,include all in SDM groups,make sure all groups are asked HOW they see things from their perspective.
A3: SHARE YOUR STORY; invite all S/H; live up to your mission/vision; be welcoming and authentic; hold all accountable.
A3:Hearing the voice of all stakeholders and giving em an opportunity to express their thoughts,make sure to tell your story on SM
A3: Once you start talking about what your school believes are the foundations (ie, Leader in Me) then others will talk the talk.
A3: Involving=including.Convo must include the stakeholders, & this has to be intentional.Collective goal of what can we do...
A3: it begins w/the leaders. They have to build the bridges to ALL groups. Neg. or disconnected admin = 😔 https://t.co/lm8om7StKg
Q3: How do we involve ALL STAKEHOLDERS in the foundational aspects of building a positive school culture?
A3: Stakeholders must be part of the process. Involve them in dec making. Lead with transparency and communicate where they are.
A3: Be intentional in Branding your school, send +message at all times, open, transparent relationships
A3 Invite the community in. We cannot do it alone!
agreed! This one for me, too, Twitter, FB, Inst, blog, smore, etc.
A3: Communicate, share the positives going on in the school with parents, find ways to bring parents into school buildings.
A3) Clear, open, and honest goals and values shared among all, including students, are crucial in maintaining good culture.
A3 Value the input of all stakeholders. No school culture happens by the principal alone.
Megan from Cedar Rapids-joining in!
Reading "Power of Branding" right now by & as Taking over our MS twitter page. Great read!
Love this! Be intentional! https://t.co/aNjoXUQ1pa
A3: Be intentional in Branding your school, send +message at all times, open, transparent relationships
A2.2 Helps retain high quality staff too, who wants to work in a negative environment? Positive culture=fun place to work
From A-3 survey what's working/what needs improvement, make the change. ask what part of change they would like to be.
A3+: Pick few parents a week to contact in some way w/ positive info or to check on their student's progress. Talk w/ kids in hall
A3: Intentionally communicate everything everywhere and seek/acknowledge input from all stakeholders.
. Culture eats structure for breakfast https://t.co/gwzzsXgBJy
A2: Because if we don't focus on school culture, we might as well not waste our time focusing on anything else.
If we don't, someone else will... https://t.co/ZvDf2f1uc6
A3: SHARE YOUR STORY; invite all S/H; live up to your mission/vision; be welcoming and authentic; hold all accountable.
A3.2: It is also important to communicate in terms that stakeholders understand. Avoid jargon and meet them where they are.
A3. I use all platforms to connect w stakeholders- social media and face to face mtgs. S's are my priority! https://t.co/1HR2ZIzRRB
This! Involving = including.
https://t.co/g4mkv7ooga
A3: Involving=including.Convo must include the stakeholders, & this has to be intentional.Collective goal of what can we do...
A3: Listening implies we are where we can hear ALL voices. And that is key.
AND....that's on my "to read" list now. :-) Thanks!
A3: Actively listen to them, allow all to have a voice
For 10 minutes, just 10, I would like to be able to run as fast as
A3: nuts&bolts- assign roles/responsibilities, delegate to the strengths in the room, EMPOWER all
A3. I worked with all stakeholders as we created our theme for the year. We also came up w a new vision! https://t.co/kd4UVH6jVn
Hi, Clint! So kind. Hope you are well, my friend!
How you treat people when they enter your school is what they will talk about when they exit.
Share your story, or someone else will! https://t.co/djK8p6yDxu
A3: Be intentional in Branding your school, send +message at all times, open, transparent relationships
Q4 is coming right up! Great chat, all!
Listening ears for all- https://t.co/r3maCMoMlP
A3: Intentionally communicate everything everywhere and seek/acknowledge input from all stakeholders.
Q4: Is there a difference between the climate and the culture of a school?
Survey! Yes! We must find out where to meet the S/Hs.
Involved S/H = more buy-in. https://t.co/t3TWlnDbHn
From A-3 survey what's working/what needs improvement, make the change. ask what part of change they would like to be.
For 10 secs right next to him if I get to wish! https://t.co/5DOuAY7pAs
For 10 minutes, just 10, I would like to be able to run as fast as
Wayne WY P PK-5 hopping in late with the good folks of Iowa!
I spread it out over 3 Olympic Games at least to win just as many golds. Unreal.
A4: Climate strikes me as a changing thing. Something that ebbs and flows, where as culture is the reputation or personality...
A3 Culture creates climate, climate affects culture. Both work together.
A4 Climate is day to day in your school. Culture is the sustained/long term in your school. Both are incredibly important.
A4: the words are used interchangeable in my book. Both better be good! https://t.co/JB07n1PMn0
Q4: Is there a difference between the climate and the culture of a school?
Minutes!? How about seconds! I’d take seconds :)
A4: They are different, but also intertwined as they impact each other. Climate is the personality & culture is the core beleifs.
A4:culture = climate+climate+climate+climate......
A4: The culture builds the climate. What you value, your traditions - that makes up who you are and how people "feel" around you.
A4: If we ignore the current climate, it will affect our culture. That's why communication & relationships are so essential.
The culture should be all-inclusive and the climate should be welcoming! https://t.co/1kh5QiQPHX
Q4: Is there a difference between the climate and the culture of a school?
A4: Climate is the feeling here and now and changes as does the mood of the school. Culture is deeply rooted and tough to change.
a4) I know the class said yes. I think both are better if we find ways to value people, value people and value people.
A3.2 Can be a challenge sometimes but we need to build the relationships of stakeholders BEFORE we need them for something
Empower! Yes - have all take part in development and share tasks to develop and grow leaders! https://t.co/KJ9eUBLME3
A3: nuts&bolts- assign roles/responsibilities, delegate to the strengths in the room, EMPOWER all
A4: climate is how we feel and culture is who we are
Eliminate gossip, excessive complaining, and insults and you will have a positive school culture.
A4: climate can be the feel you get when you walk into a building. Can change. Culture is the way we do business.
A4: Culture is the deep-rooted pulse of a school. Climate is the daily behaviors, actions, reactions.
A4 climate is a treading atmosphere or feeling but culture is how we behave and interact as a group - they are intricately linked
Q4 right here, incase you missed it — you know, watching the Olympics. https://t.co/3YKH6myyUJ
Q4: Is there a difference between the climate and the culture of a school?
A4: To me, culture is the deep-rooted values & norms. Climate is how those are being interpreted and followed.
A4:Culture are systems of the school, climate is the morale. If one is negative, so is the other.
A4: Climate is our presence day to day and how we individually impact the culture.
A4: I feel both work hand in hand and easily interchangeable - equally as important
Climate is how you feel. Culture is who you are. A positive climate can influence and reflect your culture.
From A-4 I think climate can be short term where culture is what remains as climate shifts
A4: Climate is the vibe one gets when entering a building...Culture is developed over time. There is a strong bond between them
Well said, day to day climate impacts our culture! https://t.co/6AgPMD0RiZ
A4: climate is how we feel and culture is who we are
Great way to put it https://t.co/ELkAfWJ3T8
A4: If we ignore the current climate, it will affect our culture. That's why communication & relationships are so essential.
A3: Climate can change frequently, like the weather (at least Iowa weather 😉). Culture is the constant, overlying atmosphere.
A4.2: Bringing in donuts for the faculty meeting may impact the climate, but not the culture. Culture established slowly.
It's a good start though. https://t.co/BhccfKXYem
A4.2: Bringing in donuts for the faculty meeting may impact the climate, but not the culture. Culture established slowly.
We prefer to use chocolate :) https://t.co/xalBdmKupw
A4.2: Bringing in donuts for the faculty meeting may impact the climate, but not the culture. Culture established slowly.
If you bring in enough donuts consistently, you can start to impact culture. "How we do business." https://t.co/cFh67QLS1J
It's a good start though. https://t.co/BhccfKXYem
A4.2: Bringing in donuts for the faculty meeting may impact the climate, but not the culture. Culture established slowly.
I like this analogy. Especially since I am going to leading a new (to me) building. Need to remember this point
Q5 is on deck. We are rocking this chat!
A4: Climate is the status of the patient. Culture is the status of the hospital.
A4: Climate is day 2 day atmosphere in the building/district. Culture is the big picture=ultimately what do we want to create
Change culture? Bring food!!
Q5: Describe some ways districts can evaluate school culture in order to make improvements.
Great way to describe school culture. https://t.co/oDzQSCDzB6
A3: Climate can change frequently, like the weather (at least Iowa weather 😉). Culture is the constant, overlying atmosphere.
A5 T timeliness. P attendance of meetings.
Way to trend, ! Keep rocking it!
A5: A good way is through surveys, but a better way is by being consistently present in buildings and in classrooms.
A5: Observe Ss & Ts as they go throughout the day. Listen to Ss & Ts in non-threatening environments. Look at discipline & attend.
A5: my previous district gave yearly surveys to parents and staff.
A5 Like any "change" no bells and whistles are needed, ask those on the ground floor what and how they would change
I've found the students are pretty good barometers. They call it like they see it. https://t.co/2bfl8l3f8s
Q5: Describe some ways districts can evaluate school culture in order to make improvements.
A5:Get in the schools,talk to teachers,students,parents. Send out surveys. Walk the building to feel the pulse
A5 Walk the halls, talk to Ss and staff, be in classrooms. Being visible and allowing time for feedback is crucial.
A5 has a fab survey. Used this at to get a deeper look at culture in our building.
A5) ASK. Ask everyone. Kids. Parents. Staff. Coaches. Community members. Ask everyone.
From A-5 allow students and parents to be part of faculty meetings. Value their input and make the necessary changes.
A5: seeking feedback from stakeholders. Surveys are a start. Need to engage in face to face conversations for deeper understanding
A5+ I would love to survey the community. What do they see from the outside? What do families of our Ss notice?
A5. Be mindful and listen. A shift will result.
Surveys LEAST way to get a temp of climate. T's lie and P's ignore.
A5: Parent and staff surveys, be visible & LISTEN, interact w/ community
AGREED...The next steps are LISTEN, and ACT. https://t.co/1fSwT8M11k
A5) ASK. Ask everyone. Kids. Parents. Staff. Coaches. Community members. Ask everyone.
A5: I think to eval culture, Ds need to recognize & be willing to own the norms, values, beliefs that make up current culture.
A5: Just ask! Interview returning & non-returning staff. How do visitors feel when they leave? How do they remember their visit?
A5.2: We also give monthly staff surveys to give staff a voice w/ PD ad for feedback.
I like the way you stated this. Being mindful & listening demonstrates that you care & interested in what they say
A5b: The other good ones to talk to are the support staff...paras, janitors, secretaries. They are the eyes and ears.
Yes. https://t.co/jGAQVPWeCx
A5:Get in the schools,talk to teachers,students,parents. Send out surveys. Walk the building to feel the pulse
Do you think this is an absolute? What if surveys produced results? What if surveys were short & direct? https://t.co/iqx37scMun
Surveys LEAST way to get a temp of climate. T's lie and P's ignore.
Ask, yes. Then reflect on response and make changes for the better! https://t.co/HD67DsRHiD
A5) ASK. Ask everyone. Kids. Parents. Staff. Coaches. Community members. Ask everyone.
A5: listen to community- R they sharing the right message - how do u change it - Ppl talk https://t.co/EvR8UYfM3M
Q5: Describe some ways districts can evaluate school culture in order to make improvements.
A5 evaluate your culture through open and frequent discussions - observe Ss and Ts their behavior and attitudes
A5.2 Also ask yourself, what are our core beliefs? Are these visible in school, classrooms, etc...? If not, good place to start.
A5: Reflection. Evaluate with all 1) Current culture/belief systems 2) The school/community story 3) The WHY of the culture...
Yes! All to often these stakeholders are forgotten. Also, they tend to hear & see more than most. https://t.co/9eLJQ10Y3U
A5b: The other good ones to talk to are the support staff...paras, janitors, secretaries. They are the eyes and ears.
Short surveys or suggestion boxes will let you know what teachers really think. Just make sure their anonymous if you want truth.
and use every opportunity to be positive and interact.
A5: Anonymous digital suggestion box
so true! It takes all the support to run a school! https://t.co/abAqoU5uSg
A5b: The other good ones to talk to are the support staff...paras, janitors, secretaries. They are the eyes and ears.
Short surveys or suggestion boxes will let you know what teachers really think. Just make sure they're anonymous if you want truth
A5: Allow your people to have an opportunity to express their thoughts in a safe manner. Surveys are great to assess.
Q6: What is your most impactful team-building activity you have been a part of to build community and relationships?
Yes! These are the people who really have a clear view of the culture and climate of a building.
A6: Any Edcamp style of PD & once a year we give our staff a 1/2 day of PD off & our PE staff organizes a wellness day.
A5-Interview students, how do they feel in our schools and classrooms?
You have to start with relationships then, if that’s what is happening. Build SC with authentic r/ships. https://t.co/S2a9yRu5dV
Surveys LEAST way to get a temp of climate. T's lie and P's ignore.
A5: Have someone from outside the school walk through it and see how the adults interact.
Know this sounds neg, but surveys only help in healthy climates. To open discussion.
spent time talking to Ts individually as new admin. YES!
Administrators who want the truth from teachers will establish a culture of respect and openness, not a gotcha environment
A6: This. This gave me chills to see. Want to do this to show Ps and Ts each others’ hopes. https://t.co/Z7C3k7eSZv
A7: We lean heavily on connection circles, but this year we are going to have a staff Pokemon Go competition.
A6: Halloween costume contest...competition unites!
Relationships are KEY. Period. Everything else is fluff. https://t.co/1Fc9CkRq0x
You have to start with relationships then, if that’s what is happening. Build SC with authentic r/ships. https://t.co/S2a9yRu5dV
Surveys LEAST way to get a temp of climate. T's lie and P's ignore.
A6:This year we are divided up into houses. Friday was the 1st day and we're already attached.
A5: to build strong culture, keep anonymity at minimum...must own/take responsibility to truly grow
Gotcha does not work...right on my man!! https://t.co/ZH017j8fqS
Administrators who want the truth from teachers will establish a culture of respect and openness, not a gotcha environment
A6: has been great for staff. can be a huge asset. And, PD around wellness was awesome!
Even when trends are found w/in data? Been in environments where positive steps have been made from this. https://t.co/TDC0T8Y4UK
Know this sounds neg, but surveys only help in healthy climates. To open discussion.
A6- Just learned about this summer. Excited to use with staff and students to focus on teamwork!
that is so powerful. What a great statement of getting to know what Ss think
Yes looking from the outside in is new perspective
I agree. Ppl on way out don't want to burn bridges and are less than honest. https://t.co/VoCKQwQJwV
Know this sounds neg, but surveys only help in healthy climates. To open discussion.
when T's truly had a chance to talk to w/ other T's or have fun while being involved! https://t.co/I9iX2veLSE
Q6: What is your most impactful team-building activity you have been a part of to build community and relationships?
Competition lets you learn about each other very quickly :) Plus Ts get to make a connection w/their Ss. https://t.co/oVotIjPObu
A7: We lean heavily on connection circles, but this year we are going to have a staff Pokemon Go competition.
Yes. Leading adults is hard. As soon as you treat your teachers like children, you will lose them.
Churches do this all the time! How does an outsider feel!? Hope they feel welcome, or changes must be made https://t.co/QED8kddClX
A5: Have someone from outside the school walk through it and see how the adults interact.
A6: Best team building activities haven't been planned - things that come up that rock us to our core & pull us together.
I think there is a place for both quantitative and qualitative data to learn about the culture.
A6+ Love chances to celebrate student success in an authentic, personal way. See what collaboration & support help to achieve.
! SO TRUE https://t.co/f9uGv8fKQo
A6: Best team building activities haven't been planned - things that come up that rock us to our core & pull us together.
A6 Had Ss write a down song that describes them on 1st day of school. We played them and Ss had to guess whose it was. Hilarious!
Data from surveys is incomplete or false data in poor cultures and climates. Misleading and dishonest trends.
From A-6 allow your teachers 2 run PD! Meet w/student group weekly ask what's working and what can be done to improve.
I have seen this done with students-they go to another school as a 'new student.' Very telling.
A6: anything that allows participants to interact on personal and professional levels, again...all abt relationships
A6) Community mapping, bus tours through student neighborhoods, community scavenger hunts, and off campus staff PD retreats.
A6 team building should be done in multiple ways to engage all participants - it also needs to be frequent and FUN
- I agree. but timing of surveys can seriously influence the responses too
Disagree if the focus of the survey is to get better. Have seen this in action from a struggling culture. https://t.co/2QiAXHxFjv
Data from surveys is incomplete or false data in poor cultures and climates. Misleading and dishonest trends.
Always tempted to set a repeat tweet about relationships...They are a true game changer.
https://t.co/psc1DmtMJI
A6: anything that allows participants to interact on personal and professional levels, again...all abt relationships
A6: Anything that gets you off campus...if ur off site it is easier to be present as opposed to thinking about ur office/room
Q7: What is one thought, resource, or tool that you will take back to your system from tonight’s chat?
that is where follow up and the qualitative piece comes in
A6 This year Ss will be writing letter to themselves about what they accomplished & how (during school year) Will read these @ end
Anytime people come together for greater good-act of service/contribution-it builds team.
A7: Just reflecting together on what a great year we will have. Know our strengths and stretches to help support all.
Only if leader is taking a honest approach. What is L hasnt created relationship to create safe envir to tell truth?
A7 Getting ready to write a blog post tonight about "Writing a New Chapter." Will be reflecting on new school year!
that my school needs to focus on the culture/climate of the school as a staff-- https://t.co/KmrMnjNy1t
Q7: What is one thought, resource, or tool that you will take back to your system from tonight’s chat?
A7: Added School Culture Rewired, as well as The Power of Branding to my "To Read". Also grew my .
I want to learn more about this. https://t.co/4XfxyKDLkn
A6- Just learned about this summer. Excited to use with staff and students to focus on teamwork!
Video shared. Def showing that first day
A7 take the time to build the culture. Pay attention to those important relationships with Ts, Ss. Ps. Work on it daily.
Thanks for sharing tonight on ! Love learning with you all and hearing your thoughts on school culture in education!
A7 I am ready to engage with my building leadership on climate vs culture - renew our focus on creating positive relationships
A7: Too many to pick...I will have to review and get back to you!!
A7: The impact we have on our climate and culture. Every staff member has the opportunity to improve the culture/climate!
Thanks to my co-moderators and . Be sure to follow some new friends to grow your PLN!
A7: My takeaway: Have many thoughts of how to assess, next step is what to do about it. Beliefs and actions must align.
A7: Add School Culture Rewired to my kindle
A7: Paperwork, emails, even Twitter can wait! 😳 Relationships #1 priority!
A7+ Appreciate challenging thinking during tonight. Honest opinions with respectful responses. Thanks!
A7-Ready to start the year focused on promoting our school's climate/culture now and throughout the year! Thanks
GREAT take-away! https://t.co/QCP53kAyR7
A7: Paperwork, emails, even Twitter can wait! 😳 Relationships #1 priority!
Thank you for participating in tonight's chat! As the new school year approaches or has started for some....make it great!
From A-7 our TLC team is all focused and ready for positive cultural impact! I can't wait to get started!!
A7. We have the power to make or break our school's culture and climate. Everything counts. No interaction is too small.
Ty to all who shared thoughts on about school culture, a well timed topic. Have a great week all!
What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on powerful TED talk shows the power of rships https://t.co/A08wVQzWsk
Thanks to everyone on - I needed a positive boost before training tomorrow
Join us again next week for a LIVE chat on ! Let us know how we can make chat best fit your needs!
Share you learning on so we can learn with you! :) Make Monday matter! !
Thank you for joining us & sharing your thoughts on . It is always great learning with all of you.
Thank you to co-moderators and . Bringing greatness since January 2016!
