Guests Columnists
Recently, the Normandy School District Board of Education voted to support a plan that would help to significantly improve our school district. In addition to improving the quality of teaching and learning in our classrooms, the Reorganization Plan is designed to impose more rigorous standards of accountability in all departments within the district. It requires that all administrators and support staff reapply for their positions. The administration has assured dedicated, reliable employees that they have no cause for concern as this process unfolds.
The push for a more accountable school system was driven by nearly two years of observations of an organizational culture that is more one of entitlement than one of accountability. While the public’s perception of our district is more than likely based upon poor test scores and low accountability ratings, those of us closer to the action are observing deficiencies that are much more systemic.
The lack of measurable standards to move entire departments toward improved performance, the dearth of systems that hold individuals within those departments accountable for their own improved performance, and the absence of fundamental expectations at all levels of the organization have contributed to a pervasive culture of low expectations throughout our school district. The time has arrived for that to change.
Whenever the leadership of an organization suggests that the status quo is no longer acceptable, those who are the greatest beneficiaries of the current structure will be most resistant to the change. Those detractors will cry loudly and publicly that the system is operating well as it is and that the proponents of change are, in fact, the problems. These naysayers will defy what others know to be true – they will suggest that our district is unflawed and that the data are misleading at best.
We have indeed heard the recalcitrant voices that we expected to hear. They continue to spew accusations of ulterior motives and unethical actions. Misinformation is their tool of preference. But we remain resolved to build a better Normandy School District for the young people we serve and for this very deserving community. We will not be deterred by those who were pleased with the old system because they preferred being unaccountable. We understand that regaining the public trust requires us to push beyond the comfort levels of the entrenched few as we create a stronger system in which accountability and high expectations are the new norms.
Our Strategic Planning process was also an influential factor in helping us to chart the reinvention of the Normandy School District. Many of you participated in the three community meetings held this past January and February. Community input strongly indicated the desire for a more accountable system.
We listened to those comments and suggestions as we formulated our plans for success. You told us that you wanted our students to obtain a quality education and for them to be prepared for college, careers, and citizenship. You also shared that you want a district that the public can hold in high regard – one in which expectations are lofty and improved performance is the standard. We are in the process of delivering what you have requested. We trust you as valued stakeholders and appreciate your continued support as we move forward.
Marks is president of the Normandy School District Board of Education and Lawrence is district superintendent.