Schools as Political Systems

To Politick, or... to Politick, That is the Question

"Today's teachers and administrators must simultaneously think and act as educators and politicians.  It is not always easy to combine these two roles" (page 235).   All my life, I've tried to stay away from politics, because I don't like the degrading manner in which they politick, the corruption that so easily comes, and the overall negative aspect I feel when I get involved in it.  And yet, as I learn more about administration, I see that I am going to get involved, whether I like it or not.  I like how the book (page 236) terms politics as being a "social conflict".  I deal with conflict almost daily, whether it be at home, at school, or at play.  Conflict is a continuing part of education - parents want what they think is best, teachers and their unions want what they think is best, same with administrators, the school board, everybody.  Everyone has a different point of view on things, and sometimes want different things.  So, if politics in education refers to the challenges and conflicts that arise amongst these groups throughout the decision-making process to better the school and community, then I will be a politician.  

"Deans of education colleges, university presidents, and others throughout the United States... used the argument that teaching the young was too important to be left to incompetent party leaders but instead should be entrusted to neutral, professional educators" (page 230).  I love this!  I wish there was less meddling from the higher-ups in government, but I also have to think that we, as teachers, maybe asked the government to step in.  The new political mandates that have us feeling so pressured have taken over our stance a bit.  I wish the government allowed for a little more of the 'defined autonomy' that was presented in the previous chapter.  Have the vision, set the goals, yes! but allow states and districts a little more leeway in the matter.  

As I get more involved in the school system as an administrator, I will need to know that politics is game I cannot afford to not play.  If I am to make changes for the common good of the students, school, and community, I need to be out there among the other groups and strive to solve the conflict in an orderly and kindly manner and let my voice be heard what needs to be done for those under my stewardship.  I also hope to make school politics more of a team game, working together for the greater good, instead of a 'free-for-all' between all the groups.  That way, people actually win - hopefully, those winners will be the students.