BY HERMAN M. LAGON
IN THE heart of every thriving school lies a strong and positive culture, often described as the school’s invisible yet pervasive heartbeat.
This culture, which significantly impacts every aspect of school life, from the staff’s morale to student achievement, is mainly shaped by the leadership within the institution.
The importance of school leaders in shaping and sustaining this culture is immense. Their influence is crucial in cultivating an environment where collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared vision for success can thrive.
School leaders, including principals, supervisors, teachers, formators, staff, and even parents in the case of basic education and student leaders in the case of universities, are instrumental in eliminating toxic cultures and building positive ones. Their leadership styles, decisions, and behaviors set the tone for the entire school.
In schools where the culture is positive, staff members often describe a sense of purpose and community that goes beyond the tangible elements of the school. This sense of belonging and shared mission is what makes the culture so powerful and, often, so elusive to define.
One example of leadership influencing school culture can be seen in a Jesuit school where I served for 21 years. The study titled “School Culture Typology and Leadership” highlighted how the dominant culture at this school was collaborative, despite having elements of contrived collegiality and comfortable collaboration.
This collaborative culture was evident in decision-making processes, openness, communication, and organizational history. However, areas such as trust among teachers and parent relations, although still commendable, required improvement, demonstrating that school culture is not static but rather an ongoing project requiring constant attention and adaptation.
The culture of a school includes the everyday norms, values, beliefs, traditions, and rituals that define its atmosphere. It is apparent in the sights, sounds, and overall feel when you walk in. This culture deeply affects students, teachers, and staff’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. School leaders are essential in establishing and sustaining this dynamic culture. Their active involvement fosters a positive environment where students and teachers can excel. With solid leadership, efforts to improve the school can stay calm, and the atmosphere can turn stagnant or even toxic.
A positive school culture does not just happen; it is crafted through shared values and goals, open communication, and mutual support among teachers. It involves a commitment to professional growth for everyone.
In such a culture, teachers feel appreciated and supported, students are engaged and motivated, and parents think they are essential to the community. This environment results from deliberate and ongoing efforts by school leaders who understand the importance of inclusivity and support.
Conversely, a school culture can become toxic when leadership is weak or absent. In these environments, staff members often feel isolated, the focus shifts from student needs to adult grievances, and negative attitudes prevail. Rebuilding a positive culture in such schools requires significant time, effort, and, most importantly, determined leadership willing to tackle the root causes of dysfunction and drive meaningful change. (To be continued)/PN
