Build Culture with “CULTURIZE”
There are a few key books that are cornerstones in my professional library. You know the type of books that speak to you, that have revolutionized your thinking, that are tabbed, highlighted, and referred to frequently. These are the books that I recommend to colleagues, quote in conversations, and re-read when I need inspiration and motivation in my leadership.
Among these books are:
Teach Like a Pirate by Dave Burgess
Lead Like a Pirate by Shelley Burgess and Beth Houf
The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller
Kids Deserve It by Todd Nesloney and Adam Welcome
This fall I read and this winter I re-read another book that is now part of that list:
Jimmy focuses his book on 4 key principles for leadership and building culture that are both commonsense and revolutionary in the same breath. He clearly defines the issues and problems facing our schools today, but doesn’t dwell on what is wrong or berate those responsible, rather he focuses on practical and actionable steps to build culture, rapport and relationships with kids, staff, families and the community.
He wrote phrases that are profound and worthy of a plaque, poster or banner displayed on school walls. Phrases such as:
- We cannot allow average to become our standard
- Empathy, Yes. Sympathy, No.
- It only takes one person to related to your story. Honor your impact
- Students are inherently the most important people entering our school buildings
His actions for improvement rely on a few simple strategies:
- Build Relationships. Build Relationships. Build Relationships.
- Pick up the phone and call
- Be ARMed for the difficult conversations by acknowledging, rectifying and moving on
- Don’t rely on a title to be a leader. Leaders are made by their actions.
- Take an idea and act. Don’t wait!
- Build your “tribe” through a strong and supportive PLN
- Value mistakes and model risk-taking
- Tell your school’s story
His book is thorough, practical, and addresses the most important factor in a successful school: a positive school culture based on trust, support, mutual respect, and open communication.
His book joins my professional library with dog-eared pages, highlighted text, post-its marking strategies and sentiments that I am sure to refer back to.
