What are some strategies you’ve used to build positive relationships with school personnel?
Establishing professional relationships is a cornerstone of the teaching profession. While we all aim to build positive relationships, there are always challenging situations.
Building positive relationships requires understanding of diverse cultures, various personality styles, and different perspectives. It also requires the ability to effectively communicate and function in a political educational environment. Finally, it requires always treating students, parents, colleagues, administrators, and other school personnel with respect.
Communication is key. It is important to remember that everyone plays a role in the school culture and it takes all to work together to maintain a positive environment that will be an example to the students.
I'm going through this right now as I've just transitioned into a new school and district. I definitely agree with communication being key. In my role, I serve many students in many classrooms so I've got to inform teachers of who I need and when. I also take time to talk to people about who they are outside of being a teacher; their families, etc. It helps me understand who and what is important to them.
