The Back to School Issue
This is the "Back to School" issue filled with resources for teachers as well as articles exploring what it takes for a successful start of the year. While planning for this issue, I read something by Shawn Achor, the author of "The Orange Frog" (a little parable about positive psychology) as well as "The Happiness Advantage" which I recall reading on a flight a few years back.
Achor describes a concept called "Zorro Circles" where big goals were broken down into smaller behaviors. At a large hospital chain, they decided they wanted to become friendlier and more welcoming. They changed to social scripts for all employees based on Ritz Carlton expectations. Employees were trained to make eye contact at 10 feet and to say hello if within 5 feet. The results were remarkable as patient satisfaction was markedly higher.
For many students and parents, going back to school--especially a new school--is stressful. Many of us Montanans are trained to mind our own business. But what if we made a point to say hello to everyone we came across? If an unwelcoming and stressful environment like a hospital can become more friendlier, why can't our schools?
It's a busy time and we all have lots to do. Try to keep that anxious student (or new teacher!) in mind as you go about your work.
Dr. Tim Uhl, Superintendent
Montana Catholic Schools
Email: superintendent@montanacc.org
Website: www.montanacatholicschools.org
Location: PO Box 1708 Helena MT 59601
Phone: (406) 442-5761
Twitter: @mtcathschools
