Quality in Education

Can real change occur in the District, school or classroom if the climate and culture doesn't change?  The answer to this question is- NO!  Real change that can be sustained over time requires a deep-rooted change in culture, in attitude and in paradigm.  What kind of culture change is needed to implement continuous improvement?

What does the term "culture" actually mean?  Webster defines culture as: "the integrated pattern of human knowledge, belief, and behavior that depends upon man's capacity for learning and transmitting knowledge to succeeding generations; b : the customary beliefs, social forms, and material traits of a racial, religious, or social group; c : the set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes a company or corporation."

Steven Covey refers to organizations developing a "changeless core".  This changless core is intended to anchor organizations in the tides of turbulent waters and never ending change.  In short, a changless core is simply... strong vision, mission, core values and goals that guide an organization.  It is important to note that it isn't the strategic plan or the words on paper that change the culture of an organization... it is living out what you profess to believe.  The way we act speaks volumes to what we believe.  If we are to embrace continuous improvement, we must embrace the culture change that accompanies it.  Here in lies the challlenge.

What happens to organizations that try to change behaviors or practices without changing the culture?  Can deep-rooted change occur without changing the culture?  What is the culture in your classroom, school or district?  Have You Created a Culture of Continuous Improvement? 

Jay