gail dyer

John Dewey conceived of schools as “miniature communities” mirroring the social relations and activities of the larger society.

But schools have become silos of isolation – classrooms isolated from other classrooms, teachers isolated from other teachers, schools isolated from the outside world.

Research reveals:

• Positive and productive relationships within and outside an organization enable it to carry out its mission more effectively.

• When people are connected and they collaborate their effect is multiplied, for communities are able to accomplish goals that would be impossible through more isolated efforts.

•  An educational community imbued with a positive culture is more likely to foster innovation and excellence.

What is school culture?

it is the “invisible but powerful meanings and mindsets” (Wagner T & Kegan R 2006) that shape the learning environment even more than the four walls of the classroom.

What kind of culture is most effective?

The answer is many.There is no single culture that suits schools; each school must determine its own blend of teaching talents, instructional approaches, and effective leadership to meet the unique learning needs of its community. 

There is a common element which unites all effective school communities:

a commitment on the part of every member to the learning of everyone, children and adults alike. . . a climate of respect and trust (Meier, D (2002) In Schools We Trust, Boston Beacon Press.