Schools Need Team Players, with Kate O'Connell

Have you ever grumbled over a school decision or policy? It’s easy to slip into an us-versus-them dynamic. But behind every individual and every decision there’s more than meets the eye. Open minded communication is key. “Come early and come often. Don't wait till you're completely disheartened and frustrated.” This goes for the relationships between teachers and administrators as well. “What I'm inquiring into is: How can we create an environment of relational trust and psychological safety? So that we all trust that everyone is working equally hard and doing their job. Being judgmental? There really isn't space for that kind of critique.” Kate shares  How parents often skip a crucial step and jump right to “gathering” around an issue Your perceived solution may or may not actually solve the problem Why teachers might not be excellent at handling confrontations with parents The importance of knowing your child’s teachers and administrators as people and more. RESOURCES mentioned in this episode: The Culture Map Compass Education ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? Take a screenshot and share it with your friends … tag @ResilientExpats. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST: Kate O'Connell has 25 years of experience in education, including 22 years of classroom teaching and 20 years in leadership roles. Kate leverages strategic vision and systems thinking to deliver leadership for effective school growth and student development. Through incorporating innovative initiatives Kate has promoted community engagement amongst diverse populations. Her student-centered and mission-focused leadership is recognized by her community. She is both knowledgeable and approachable, as Kate leads the advancement of challenging and rigorous school goals. Kate has keen communication and interpersonal skills that facilitate strong relationships with students, parents and colleagues, and engender an educational environment that is conducive to motivation, equity and continuous improvement. CONNECT with Kate O’Connell: Twitter: Innovate Create Relate @innovatecreater ABOUT YOUR HOST: Kim Adams is an American raising three daughters along with her math-teaching husband of 20 years. She loves photography, reading, thunderstorms, walking on the beach, camping where there are no bugs, and has a weakness for mint chocolate chip ice cream.  To set up a conversation with Kim to learn how she can support you, go to ResilientExpats.com/Adapt and hit “Apply Now.” CONNECT WITH KIM:  Email Resilient Expats LLC website Facebook page Free Parents Community on Facebook 1:1 Support to smooth your transitions & maximize your expat experience