October 2016.
We and Not I Philosophy
On Sept 6, 2016 I stood at the heart of our school, in the Commons, in front of our chapel,to share what I called the St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic High School vision. This vision was born out a collection of thoughts, ideas and input from both the students and staff at this school. I also used information from parents collected by my predecessor, Mr. Scuglia, to develop the final product. On Sept 8 and 9, I shared this vision with students and then on Sept 21, I shared it with our parent community. The vision has now been posted on my blog.
The four themes in this vision are:
- The We and Not I Philosophy,
- SAFE Zones,
- Wellness and
- Communication.
I have decided to explain each of the four themes in the school’s vision on a monthly basis. Please indulge me this month as I begin to explain why it is important to focus on the “We and Not I” philosophy.
In the words of the African Proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” It is my goal to ensure that all stakeholders at St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic High School make each and every child in their care their number one priority. St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic High School is a vibrant place and it will continue to be vibrant under my leadership. The focus at our school will be on the “WE” and not “I”.
It is in that vein that I would like to share a description of my leadership style first. My leadership style is that of a shepherd; one leads from behind so that no one is left behind. The leader trusts those who are on the ground as they have firsthand information because they are on the ground. Everyone must feel welcome and a part of the village whether the shepherd is present or absent. It is therefore important for you to know that I will be consulting with teachers, parents/guardians, and students and others when making decisions. When we work together, we will accomplish a lot. We have more resources at our disposal when we work as a team.
The scriptures tell us that we are one body with many parts. When a part of our body hurts we all hurt, but we usually can compensate for that hurting body and move forward. In the classroom when we teach we will focus on learning and expect each member of our community to walk away from each encounter having learned something.
Although we appreciate the uniqueness of every individual, we should accept that there is strength in numbers. We accomplish more collaboratively than when we operate in isolation. Collaboration is an important part of what we should be demonstrating and teaching our students.
I look forward to not only instilling a sense of the “We” in our community but practising it on a daily basis. Let us bring our diverse God-given skills and talents and make our school, village and world a better place.