Having taught at my current school for the past 4 years, I have taken on the role as 2nd grade team leader.  In doing so, I now attend weekly “Leadership Team Meetings” and I am responsible for disseminating information to my colleagues.  The Leadership team is a diverse group made up of veteran teachers as well as teachers with less experience.  For the most part, it is a positive group of individuals truly committed to the goals of our school.  At my team level, the culture is much different.  Again, we are a diverse group differing in age and experience.  The biggest difference lies in our attitudes and beliefs about children and teaching.  Half of our team is truly committed to our students and doing what is necessary to ensure that all children are successful.  The other half of our team is less enthusiastic and at times very critical of our children, administration, and school.  This has caused great problems for our “team” this year.  As I talk with other team leaders, I have found out that this is common among many of our teams.  Collectively it contributes to a school culture that is divided.  If we do not share common beliefs or values, how can we manage to work together? 

     On the contrary, my sons attend a school in the same county only a few miles from my own where the climate and culture (at least to the parents) is much different from my home school.  Teachers work together as teams for the common good of students.  They are supported by administration and are willing to “go the extra mile” as evidenced by their participation in after school activities such as free tutoring, drama club activities, school dances and socials.  When I walk into the building, I truly feel as though it is a large extended family.  Teachers of various grade levels greet my sons by name and I am made to feel welcome and valued as a parent.  I’m not sure if it is just a coincidence, but this school also has some of the highest CRCT scores in the county.  Coincidence or not?