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Jen Schwanke, Ed.D.'s avatar

One of the things I like most about this conversation with @danny is the discussion of deficit language— that it comes out of a need for self-preservation.

I think about that a LOT. When I catch myself in a mindset of pre-emptive deficiency, it's usually because I'm scared I won't be big enough, smart enough, experienced enough, or talented enough to fix the problem. I wonder if others feel the same—?

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Danny Bauer's avatar

That's a great point. The Imposter, The Critic, The Little Devil in all our heads trigger that fear to keep us from playing big and Doing School Different. This was such a fun conversation to host.

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Dan Watt's avatar

“We've diluted the task too much.”

In public schools we are trying to be all things to all people, but that is impossible.

What's the answer?

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Danny Bauer's avatar

You're so right. We need courage to simplify.

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Dan Watt's avatar

I really liked the part in the interview about clearly communicating what we do. I think that piece is often overlooked

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Danny Bauer's avatar

Wow. What a great insight Dan. That's exactly it. And here's the thing ... that clear communication is the quickest path to developing the trust all Ruckus Makers want with their team.

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Jen Schwanke, Ed.D.'s avatar

Dan Watt asks, "What's the answer?"

Danny replies, "We need courage to simplify."

Simplified further, "We need courage."

It's very difficult for leaders to muster the courage to say, "Enough. What is it we can release into the universe?" But teachers are silently BEGGING for leaders to have that courage. Will there be pushback? Well, sure. But will it make a positive difference? Yessssssssss.

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Dan Watt's avatar

And some, not so silent 😂 I'm grateful for those nudges.

Our district is experimenting with stripping down our district and school plans this year. I've actually been given the go-ahead for one school goal 🤯

Still trying to figure out what that is going to look like in reality, and day-to-day in classrooms, and for reporting. But it's an exciting experiment.

Btw, I loved the part of your chat with Danny where you talked about teachers just wanting to show up and read a couple novels and hang out with kids. We have very over complicated expectations for our schools

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