The Right Climate For Change In Schools

Charles Darwin the first true naturalist created one of the most impressive volumes in biology in his “Origins of the Species.  He observed, questioned, experimented and tested his ideas to arrive at the conclusion that natural selection is responsible for all creation.  Although he didn’t live to see how the human genome bears the stamp of natural selection he would not have been surprised. The framework for understanding the natural world and ourselves lies in accepting change.  We continue to  evolve so it’s a logical connection that our institutions must evolve too.  They must change when the conditions demand it.

How do we know when change is necessary?

Change is necessary when outcomes produce failure.  Unfortunately currently in education there is too much failure.  Education must decide what matters most.   Is it loyalty to the system or to the mission?

The mission of all schools must be to create the best environment for learning.  When a school nurtures the desire to learn everyone thrives.

I once read a sign that said, “All structures are unstable.”  It’s apropos for understanding the need for change.   Our institutions are human endeavors that eventually weaken and become unstable.  Instead of reacting to the weakness we must become  proactive and position our thinking to creating changes when necessary.

Right now we are at the threshold of this change.  There is an opportunity for fundamental shifts in perspective but these shifts also threaten our comfort levels and the status quo. Our attachments to the way things are is only a fear-based reaction.  Instead of defending this reaction we can transform it.

To accept and embrace change in schools it’s important to:

• Look at your motivation.  What is more important acknowledging your own personal weak areas or a willingness to step out of your comfort zone and see what’s possible?
• Cultivate emotional wisdom.  Be honest with how you feel, is it fear or logic that keeps you from accepting changes.
• Calm your mind.  Be proactive.  Listen for your own reactive thinking, language and actions. And be willing to adapt a better way.
• See clearly.  Reexamine your goals and your mission; this will connect you with the best path.
• Embrace generosity.  Be open to the ideas of others and encourage the collaboration.

Change is necessary, advantageous and possible but only when all the shareholders accept this.