A Reader Writes... (Lesson Framing - Part 3)

In response to the post, “Lesson Framing – Part 2,” a reader writes:

“This reminds me of a conversation I had last night at a district parent meeting. I was telling a person that I mentor that turning around schools isn't that hard. My words were obviously contrary to the prevailing wisdom being shared that evening by other "school leaders." A parent overheard my comments, stepped up, and asked me to explain.

It was a classic LYS moment. The parent walked away, somewhat in disbelief: is this man insane, incompetent, a genius, or all three? Can changing my child's school really be that simple?

YES IT CAN!”

SC Response
Yes, the prescription for improving is rather simple (notice I did not say easy). And here is the ultimate irony, the faster you go the better it is for everyone (students, staff, leadership) involved (again, notice I didn’t say easy).

The problem is that as a whole, people want easy and they want to be liked. These desires are the polar opposites of the realities of meaningful change. Those who know me, or are familiar with my track record, or are aware of my reputation know that I can dramatically improve the performance of any unacceptable campus in less than one semester. But I can promise you that at the end of that semester you will be able to count the number of “happy” adults on one hand.

Of course you can go slower. But with each extra day you take you are marginalizing the future of one or more students for the sake of adult comfort and convenience. Rationalize your decision all you want, but know that when you place adult needs over student needs, at the very least you and I are going to have a tough conversation.

Think. Work. Achieve.

Your turn...