Real connection- it’s about the people!
In a previous post I wrote about the importance of continuing to improve communication between families and the school district. You can read that HERE. As a parent, I’ve felt the frustration of trying to voice concern about issues, attending listening sessions that seem to go nowhere, and trying to figure out the different ways to get involved with the school district. As a school board member, I will focus on listening and connecting with stakeholders.
To jump start the feedback during this campaign season, I posed the following questions at my campaing launch event and welcomed attendees to write and share. Some responses are included below. I invite you to email me to share your thoughts. These questions are basic, but if you read through them, a theme comes into focus. Outcomes are important, but it’s the strength of human connection that weighs heavily in determing those outcomes. In an article from Psychology Today, Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath wrote, "a strongly empathetic student-teacher relationship imparts 2.5 times greater impact on learning than does one-on-one instruction alone." For public education, it’s all about the people! It’s about the connection between students and staff, colleagues, peers, and the community.
What do you LOVE about WPS?
“I love my friends who teach, care, and support our kids- often thanklessly.”
“I support paras and non-classified staff and clerical and custodial workers in their tireless, thankless, and universally under-compensated work! They have the hardest job of all and do it anyway!”
“I love how passionate my kids’ teachers are and how much they truly care about their students and all aspects of their lives.”
“The family/faculty I work with- we’re in it together! Our goal are your kids- their safety, educational goals and happiness!”
“All staff continue to show up despite low wages and being over-worked.”
“I love the teachers who are caring and awesome.”
“I love that all kinds of children get the opportunity to develop peer connection.” “I love that!” another person added.
“I love the community of parents and teachers. The attention and care my children receive from their teachers.”
What do you value about public education?
“Public education is critical to community infrastructure.”
“I value the people who ensure that all kids belong.”
“All kids are valued, loed and given a beautiful academic and soial emotional education.”
“EVERY kid is valued.”
“Every student has the chance to have a bright future.”
“I value the accessibility and the encouragement for all to be welcome.”
“So many teachers giveof their hearts as well as their minds. Thank you!”
Why do you care about WPS?
“Our kids are the MOST vulnerable population.”
“Because children are curious and eager to know more. Having a safe and diverse place for them to do so is incredibly necessary.”
“Education is the most critical public service of all.”
“Our children are our future.”
What do you hear in these comments? Do they resonate with you or is there something missing that you want to share? Use the CONNECT option or send me an email and let me know what you think!