As many new leaders begin to transition into their respective roles and responsibilities, I am optimistic that they will continue to foster a sense of belonging for all students. As I often share, our students do not choose where they go to school or where they will be served; however, they still want to be valued, seen, heard, and respected. We, as leaders, are called and chosen to serve in our roles within their communities.

Our teachers, like our Gen Z/Gen A students, want relationships deeply rooted in trust, where they are empowered to be creative and bold. They seek the autonomy to take risks and be innovative, and they deserve recognition for their contributions to the classroom, school, and community.

There’s no doubt that the students we serve today are vastly different from those just a few years ago. But we cannot hope for the students of yesterday. We have to love the students we have, for I believe that every student in our classrooms was placed there for a specific purpose. It’s our responsibility to be the dealers of hope and belief, ensuring that they reach their full potential.

We continue to answer the call because we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. Each day, educators inspire and empower, making a difference in the lives of their students and the future of our society. That is what has happened this year. In various ways, in various communities, and in various classrooms, we have inspired and made the world a better place for all.

A positive culture matters. Period. We have to create spaces where there are relationships deeply rooted in trust where people are empowered to be innovative and have the autonomy to take risks, but a space that also recognizes them for their value and contributions. We have to make spaces where people want to be.

I call this the 5+1 model of school culture – communication, relationships, trust, empowerment, autonomy, and recognition.

Teachers, I believe, are the dealers of hope and belief. They illuminate pathways to our dreams, instilling confidence and resilience in their students. With innovative approaches, they expand horizons, enabling students to envision a world full of possibilities.

To foster relationships anchored in trust, these principles serve as the bedrock upon which organizational cohesion is built.

The Power of Positive School Culture — it’s not just a concept, but an actual lived reality!