Shaping School Culture

As studies are conducted across the United States and around the World, it is becoming more apparent that children respond better to learning and taking care of school property if they understand their culture. This is an outline from one of the best books on the market about developing school culture.

I. If only schools would behave more like businesses.

A. The culture of an enterprise plays the dominant role in exemplary performance.

1. "A company can grow without losing the passion and personality that built it, but only if it's driven not by profits but by values and by people . . . The key is heart . . ." (Howard Schultz, CEO of Starbucks, p. 1)

2. Culture is the glue that bonds. Parents, teachers, and administrators need to look at their local traditions and ways. B. A Desert Jewel, Ganado Primary School in Arizona, is recognized for its excellence.

1. The Spider Rock that is seen upon entering the school is more than adornment but is representative of a portion of Navajo history. (P. 16)

2. A fusion of modern technology and the traditions of the Navajos reinforce tradition and pride. (P. 16)

3. Cultural values are also visible, which include airy and well-lit hallways, a library in the center of the school and places for community gatherings.

C. Architecture and artifacts represent the core values of the school and basic beliefs embodied in the mission statement of the school.

1. The students will have opportunities to respect their environment, each other, and their cultural and linguistic heritage. 2. Everyone will have the opportunity to negotiate their experiences with the content of the classroom, instructional style, social and professional interactions with school life.

3. A relaxed atmosphere where hard work, challenges, cordiality and manners will be combined in the overall educational experience.

4. Staff development asks itself, "What's it like to be a child?" Student and parents ask, "What's it like to be a teacher?" These questions are a part of the understandings and philosophy of the school. (P.17) D. Principal's personal philosophy is the 'C Diet'. 1. Facilitating confidence, courage, compassion, competence, clarity, collaboration, challenges, curiosity, contentment in the students and the staff.

2. Celebrating successes of the students who have done well is a regular part of the curriculum. 3. Tour guides for visitors around the campus and regular teacher meetings to share what they are reading are also a part of the campus plan.

II. Vision and values are bedrock in creating significant respect for culture.

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