There has been a major shift in building climate since I have been at LHLC. There was a disagreement between the principle and the teachers regarding who gets to pick the format of the PLC's. Unfortunately, the teachers (knowing they were correct) chose to vote on the issue as a union (Which is entirely within their rights to do). However, the principle became really upset about it and told the staff they had been insubordinate. Following this, a few teachers told the principle that they were following the group for fear of being "hastled" by their peers. Now, no one wants to speak to anyone and no one wants to take on new responsibilities or offer ideas at meetings because they are fearful of anyone saying anything negative about them.
I had never seen this side of being a teacher and it has been very worisome to me. It has clearly damaged some relationships within the building. From this experience I am reminded of the importance of being united as a teaching staff as well as how difficult the role of a principle must be and how their choices affect their relationships as well. I'm glad that student teaching has given me these insights as I enter the professional field.
Wow, Julie. I had no idea this was all happening at your school. You're definitely getting a close-up look at a realistic tension that can exist in a school community among teachers and administration. You thought you only had to figure out the kids and the curriculum, right? You have a great attitude, in your post, about how you can learn from this situation; I wonder if you've been thinking about how you would respond if you were a full time teacher at LHLC. I appreciate your sensitivity toward the teachers' point of view and the challenge the principal faces in trying to lead the faculty. Do you think there will be a resolution? Is a union representative getting involved (someone outside of the faculty)? You'll have to keep us posted.
ReplyDeleteWould you say that this situation preoccupies you for part of every day, in the stories you hear, the behaviors you see, and the way you make decisions about what you're going to say and do? Just curious . . .