School Reform

School reform begins with acknowledging a need for growth.  The voices of all stakeholders lead to a step in a positive direction.  It has been my own experience in other fields, as well, that the person on the lowest end of the line knows so much more about the basics than those in the highest positions.  I began working at an early age.  It was always such a surprise how absent the ones in charge were on a daily basis.  At a local retail store, the manager had no idea of the poor conditions of the restrooms.  The corporate managers had no idea about the poor attendance of the manager.  The President or CEO had no idea about the lack of interest of his buyers.  It was clear to me then that the higher up a person goes in most professions, the less they actually work.  So, when considering school reform, I’m most interested in observing and considering all parties involved. 

At the schools I’ve been involved with in my career, the janitors, maintenance and cafeteria staff had such clear suggestions on how to run certain issues more successfully.  Often, they knew of scheduling problems and how to correct those through basic observation.  As a person in a minimum leadership role last year (while still teaching full-time), I spoke with the hourly wage staff regarding stocking, maintenance requests, scheduling, etc.  They gave me wonderful insights and guided many resolutions.  Therefore, I have to say that I include all people involved, beginning with those least expected to be in the know.  In addition, students are very aware of solutions.  They may comment on how something as simple as wasting paper could be remedied.  For example, several students who were exposed to a “going green” project quickly pointed out recycling solutions within the school.  Because they are exposed to a different view daily, their suggestions are pretty firm indicators to be considered.  Listen to parents of struggling students, as well as successful ones.  They have needs and wants, and often have constructive criticism.  Teachers young, old, experienced, new, happy, overwhelmed, and courageous need a voice.  Often, any negative remarks quickly label the speaker.  Sure, there are some people who are only negative.  However, all voices should be heard.  The administrators should not only be their own voice in key leadership roles, they should also be the voice of their staff and population.  The superintendent will only be aware of needs when each voice is committed to bearing truths, and willing to initiate and question change.  The school board should only be a reflection of fairness, objectivity, and good listeners.  Politicians and higher leaders chosen are expected to be the voice.  However, I think they should hear voices first and foremost.  It’s like anyone who has ever been given a wrong order.  Is it fair to blame only the cook?

The moral, philosophical, and social ramifications of the power, or lack thereof, of each of these voices, are great.  Each time a person is moved to a higher position, given a greater voice, or receives higher wages, more should be expected of that person.  The current paradigm must change.  Quality must be a guarantee.  Positions need to be earned and remain consistent.  Until that changes, those in power will do more to secure their own positions than make changes for the sake of others.  The voices at the David School are those representing people who don’t have anything to risk, but a dream.