A Reader Writes... (Poisonous Staff - Part 2)

In response to the 10/27/2010 post “Poisonous Staff – Part 1,” a reader writes:

I read the original post when it came out and didn't realize until today that some of our staff might have been who the principal was speaking of. Today, we had a training presentation going on and many on the staff kept whispering, “Why are we here, we have more important work to do…”

I just decided to write what the presenter was sharing with us. I am so worried that our school is not going to do well because of all this negativity that I am seriously considering a career change because I don't see how I can help. I've offered so many times to lend a helping hand when the administrator asks for it and I just get silence or I am told in a roundabout way that I'm not needed in that way.

SC Response

I'm sorry to hear about what you are having to deal with. It is demoralizing when your peers are phoning it in and leadership is ineffective, inept or both. For a classroom teacher in your situation I have the following advice:

1. Stay focused on the fact that there is nothing more important than the teaching and learning that occurs in your classroom.

2. Try to find some joy in the growth and success of your students.

3. Decide if the situation on your campus is temporary or long term. If it is temporary, stay positive and set a good example for your peers. If it is long term, look for a campus or district that is less focused on adults and more focused on students.

But as long as you have students that are counting on you, you have to keep working at full speed. Best of luck and know that if the going gets tougher, write or call anytime you need us.

Think. Work. Achieve.

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