PMP363: Building Stronger, Authentic Relationships with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker
This week Will Parker and Jen Schwanke respond to a listener question submitted several months ago but still relevant today for leaders:
“I’ve been a loyal listener of the Principal Matters podcast and value the insights from both William and Jen. As a new principal of a small school with 125 students and 9 teachers, I’m facing a challenge. The staff has developed a ‘silo mentality’ since the pandemic, and it’s been hard to break. Any tips for authentically fostering stronger relationships among staff and creating a unified team culture?”
Key Discussion Points Jen’s Strategies1. Team Consultation:
2. Social Gatherings:
3. Community Building in Meetings:
4. Leverage Positive Gossip:
5. Invite Student Involvement:
1. Intentional Time:
2. Event-Based Engagement:
3. Ask Your Staff to Set Norms:
4. Tradition and Culture:
5. Student Participation:
We know this time of year can be overwhelming. Engaging your team, however, cannot be a second priority over “just doing school.” The cohesiveness of our teams will reflect in the energy and engagement teachers bring to student learning.
Listen to the entire episode for even more takeaways. We hope our strategies help you in fostering stronger, more authentic relationships within your school community. What other ideas or suggestions would you add to the list? Thank you again for doing what matters!
Principal Parry’s Pithy ProverbsLisa Parry is a K-12 Principal in Arlington, South Dakota, and a professional development speaker and consultant. As a Principal Matters Associate, she also regularly contributes to our newsletter subscribers. You can follow her work at: https://principalparry.com/ Enjoy this thoughtful post from Lisa:
What makes a Monday easier?A sublime Sunday.
Today that meant a
🧡 pumpkin patch.
🧡 cool breeze.
🧡 sunny sky.
🧡 delighted granddaughter.
I’m ready for the week. 🎃
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