On a number of occasions I was treated with dignity lately. That served to uplift my spirit and motivate positive work. I also witnessed the way a group of professionals moved and talked today when treated with dignity, and thought about what a difference that makes.
In old factory model schools and systems, teachers aren't always treated with dignity. Instead, they are treated as the "doers" rather than "thinkers and doers." As "doers" their thoughts, needs, and ideas are often not taken seriously or given time, yet as "thinkers and doers" they are treated professionally with dignity and respect.
How can school systems transform so that teachers are treated with dignity? What systems create that?
Here are a few points to start:
- All voices are welcome and respected.
- Decisions are given time and thoughtful structure.
- Ideas are shared with all and transparency is the mainstay for almost all information (no secrets).
- Communication is clear and inclusive.
- Needs are considered and met with a timely response.
- Lead time is given for all work and decision making.
- Expectations are reasonable and well communicated.
- Roles and responsibilities are understood by all--confusion is minimal.
- Support for collaboration is provided.
- Working spaces are clean, inviting, and support good work.
- Teachers are treated like the well-educated, thoughtful, dedicated professionals they are.
- High expectations are clearly stated and in place for all staff.
What other conditions can you think of that promote dignity for teachers, and in turn what does dignity for other members of the learning community (families, community members, leaders, support staff) look like? This is an area I want to think about and develop with greater effect. I look forward to your responses.
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