One of the signs of a healthy organization, one where the message we wish to convey through the school experience is consistent and true, is the ability to mix and match workers when the necessity arrives. In any given school year a variety of challenges may arise which result in the need for creativity and flexibility. For example, at my school earlier this year we saw a significant bout of illness work its way through the students and into the ranks of staff members. It’s a testimony to the people on our staff that we were able to pull together and cover all needs and responsibilities. We saw multiple teachers and staff members step outside their typical responsibilities to cover for others, whether in classrooms or the office area, and the experience for our students and families remained caring, high quality, and effective.
More recently, a part-time teacher on staff was unable to serve through the entire Third Quarter as she focused on a serious health issue. Once again, other staff members adjusted schedules, took on additional duties, and provided support and expertise wherever needed so that positive learning and growth experiences were maintained for our students, while the place for the teacher was held available. We were all thrilled to see her now return to duty this week, as we give thanks to God for successful medical treatment as well as for now making us whole again as a staff family.
The most telling aspect of all this has been the willingness of everyone to pitch in as they can, wanting to care for each other and for the school ministry through the difficulties that pull others away. Not once did I hear someone vehemently complain or voice a great frustration that they were being asked to take on something different than the norm. Rather, I’ve experienced a “How can I help?” mentality, one that suggests that our staff members truly “get it.” Lutheran Schools serving as a place that focuses on caring for others is more than just about excellent teaching of students, it is also about caring for colleagues as yourself, and caring for the mission of the school ministry above personal preference.
The key indicator of how our brand has held true through this is that not once have I heard a question, challenge, or issue from any of our school families throughout the topsy-turvy ride of temporary changes. They have been willing to roll with it, and in great part because they know that each person who spends time with their children also is massively committed to the children’s care, and parents see the experience play out that way each day. What a joy, and a strength, to be able to be a part of such a school family. This is part of what is so special about our Lutheran Schools.
More recently, a part-time teacher on staff was unable to serve through the entire Third Quarter as she focused on a serious health issue. Once again, other staff members adjusted schedules, took on additional duties, and provided support and expertise wherever needed so that positive learning and growth experiences were maintained for our students, while the place for the teacher was held available. We were all thrilled to see her now return to duty this week, as we give thanks to God for successful medical treatment as well as for now making us whole again as a staff family.
The most telling aspect of all this has been the willingness of everyone to pitch in as they can, wanting to care for each other and for the school ministry through the difficulties that pull others away. Not once did I hear someone vehemently complain or voice a great frustration that they were being asked to take on something different than the norm. Rather, I’ve experienced a “How can I help?” mentality, one that suggests that our staff members truly “get it.” Lutheran Schools serving as a place that focuses on caring for others is more than just about excellent teaching of students, it is also about caring for colleagues as yourself, and caring for the mission of the school ministry above personal preference.
The key indicator of how our brand has held true through this is that not once have I heard a question, challenge, or issue from any of our school families throughout the topsy-turvy ride of temporary changes. They have been willing to roll with it, and in great part because they know that each person who spends time with their children also is massively committed to the children’s care, and parents see the experience play out that way each day. What a joy, and a strength, to be able to be a part of such a school family. This is part of what is so special about our Lutheran Schools.