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District 9-R fostering a culture of fear

As an alumna of School District 9-R, an active community member and a parent of two students, I am deeply concerned about the organizational culture of fear that appears evident in our school district.

Each week, I spend an average of five or more hours volunteering in my children’s school. The fear of reprisal that I have witnessed from teachers who express concerns or disagreement to any aspect of their jobs is heartbreaking – especially because their concerns are motivated by their experience in education and their wish to provide the best possible school experience for our children.

Empowering teachers is the basis for building a strong and effective education system. By drawing out the best in teachers, they are then able to provide the best learning environment and opportunity for our children. Teachers and staff should be involved in decision-making through authentic participation by treating them as capable and experienced professionals. We should let them know that their insights are valuable.

The current 9-R administration has created an organization of ineffective communication by its unwillingness to listen to what the teachers have to say. The school district finds itself in a precarious position with a lot of public criticism regarding the SchoolVault program and the inability to find qualified personnel. Many teachers I have spoken to have expressed that – although they want innovation in the classroom to both be supported and encouraged – they do not want to be forced to use untested educational trends, stating that our children should not be guinea pigs.

Teachers and staff do not feel trusted or respected, and their growing lack of buy-in is a result. Teachers should know that the administration values their efforts in trying to do what is best for students.

The school district will need to work hard to change the culture of fear. It will take time to earn back the trust and respect of the community, including teachers and parents. It will need to encourage open and honest communication even when there are dissenting views.

Jessica Obleton

Durango



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