4 Key Strategies To Transform Your School Culture

School Culture Transformation

“We ask, ‘Do you think your people perform better when they’re healthier and happier?’ Almost invariably, the answer is ‘Yes.’ Then we ask one more question: ‘Does your organization regularly invest in people’s health and happiness?’ The answer is nearly always “No.”

― Tony Schwartz, Be Excellent at Anything: Four changes to get more out of work and life

Think about the students who learn from a disengaged, burnt-out educator who is just going through the motions.

Think about the students who learn from an overwhelmed educator whose school is disorganized and directionless.

Think about the students who learn from an educator trapped in “not enough” thinking: not enough time, not enough money, not enough support.

The mindsets of our educators have ripple effects on our kids. The good news? We’ve found that the culture of a school directly impacts the satisfaction and wellbeing of educators.

So, how can school leaders be intentional about creating a positive culture that supports its team?

We’ve identified four key ways to begin:

1. Evaluate the existing culture.

Get clear on what is working and what isn’t working within the existing culture. Based on that information, what changes would you like to make and why? Get specific.

2. Identify individual and school-wide core values.

What does the school stand for? What core values define the school’s culture, and bring the team together around a shared mission? Aligning the core values of each individual creates a strong common language based firmly in authenticity. Our core values are only valuable when they’re rooted in who we truly are, not as aspirational markers

3. Take radical responsibility.

Culture’s rallying cry is: “this is who we are and this is how we do things.” Culture is created through the collective effort of how each individual shows up. How can you embody the school’s core values even 1% more each day? How can you step into greater responsibility for your part in promoting a positive culture?

4. Make the cultural direction crystal clear.

Clarity’s rallying cry is: “This is how we’re growing.” Give clear how-tos and steps forward to bring the values to life for a stronger school culture. Bring people together to align as a team. Make sure the direction is clear as day.

When school leaders actively create positive culture on purpose, everyone wins. Learn more about building culture here.