Working Together

This week I worked with a group of teacher leaders at a school district in our county. I wonder why I am surprised that after a few weeks of working together with a focused purpose, a group begins to bond. Watching the transformation from I can do this alone to I am a part of a system is a rewarding experience because it provides the HOPE we need for education and our nation.

The success of a learning community depends upon the level of trust that builds over time. My bigger question is why do we NOT trust one another enough to take that leap of faith and say. "Count me in. I believe I can make a more significant difference by working collaboratively toward a focused goal than I could by working alone. "

What holds us back?

Another Question: Why don't we trust that in our everyday lives (at our jobs or in our homes), we can accomplish more collaboratively than individually? I would love to hear your thoughts.

In education, I have seen successful collaboration with adults AND students. There is research and information to support the effectiveness of learning communities. On Common Ground edited by Rick Dufour, Rebecca Dufour and Robert Eaker sites many examples and researchers on how to and why to work in professional learning communities.

Margaret Mead said, " Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." (The Hole In Our Gospel, by Richard Stearns. 2009, World Visions, Inc., p. 241.)

I see our education and our country learning together, but we must stop the polarization created by two groups opposing one another. Each fighting for the title of being "right." The more diverse people, problem solvers, creative and critical thinkers we can bring to the table, the greater the possibility that a nation of learners will emerge. The key to effective collaboration is LISTENING.

Who has effective strategies for teaching others to listen that you are willing to share?

This blog is about teaching with HOPE and understanding that Everyone is a teacher.