Lecture Notes: Chapter Three - School Mission, Vision, and Values

Introduction

• Presenter: Leah Murray
• Topic: School mission, vision, and values

Foundation of School Culture

• Mission and vision statements are essential for establishing school culture.
• Values underlying these statements influence teaching and learning philosophy.

Key Concepts

Mission

• Defines day-to-day operational objectives and public commitments.
• Describes what needs to be done now to achieve the vision.
• More specific than vision statement.

Vision

• A public declaration outlining higher-level goals for the future.
• Broad description of what the school aspires to become.
• Should inspire and motivate participation and contribution.

Values

• Support the mission and vision, shape school culture.
• Reflect core beliefs (also referred to as code of ethics).
• Define how individuals are expected to behave within the school community.
• Provide moral direction and influence decision-making.

Importance of Mission, Vision, and Values

• Direct efforts towards common goals.
• Help maintain focus on organizational objectives.
• Establish standards for behavior and excellence.
• Provide a framework for decision-making and prioritization.

Department of Education's Role

• Mission and vision should support what public schools are trying to achieve.
• Values, beliefs, assumptions, and norms guide individual behavior in schools.

Definitions and Concepts

• Values: Standards of what is important in a school.
• Beliefs: Consciously held views about truth and reality.
• Assumptions: Underlying beliefs that guide behavior.
• Norms: Unspoken expectations that govern behavior in school culture.

Cultural Norms in Schools

1. Shared Goals

   • Empowerment leads to alignment with the school's vision.

2. Responsibility for Success

   • Collective accountability among staff for school success.

3. Collegiality

   • Strong relationships built on trust and understanding.

4. Continuous Improvement

   • Emphasis on lifelong learning and professional development.

5. Lifelong Learning

   • Learning is a continuous process beyond formal education.
   • Encourages engagement and personal growth.

6. Support

   • Leadership is supportive and encourages open communication.

7. Mutual Respect

   • Recognition of the value each person brings to the school.

8. Openness

   • Open discussions about differences and diverse opinions.

9. Celebration and Humor

   • Celebrating achievements fosters a positive atmosphere.
   • Joy and laughter enhance staff satisfaction and performance.

Conclusion

• The mission, vision, and values are integral to directing school culture and behavior.
• Importance of understanding and embracing these elements for a successful school environment.
• Encouragement to reflect on learning from the lecture.