The Power Dynamic...within my school is among many different people. Overall, the power dynamic is among the Central Office and the Superintendent. The Central Office and Superintendent collaborate together on a regular basis. The power dynamic then trickles down on many levels. At the school site level, the administration has the most power however, that power is limited by the Central Office. The administration has the power that governs the everyday actions at the school, everyone at the school is under the power of the administration. The teachers have the power within their classroom and grade level. The grade level chairperson has the power over the grade level teachers. Then there are the custodians, cafeteria staff, and bus drivers. Each of these subgroups of employees have a supervisor that they answer to. The system of the school is similar to a hierarchy.
I can use this information to influence change at my school by knowing who to go to. If I would like to volunteer time or materials to one of the subgroup I would know who to contact. Other creative ideas, could include a Recycling club which, would have to involve the custodians to allow students to collect recycles instead of the custodians. I can also use this information to know who to talk to for help for myself or for those that I mentor.
I like the power dynamic example you used for the Recycling club and including the custodians. Including support staff will let them know they are valued and appreciated. Also, this will benefit you in the future if you need something else from the group.
ReplyDeleteIt is really important--vital actually--that you know who to contact for each activity. Knowing the correct person cuts down on time and frustration when you are making things happen. It's good that you understand the hierarchy of your school. It aids in understanding how the power is distributed.
ReplyDeleteIt's true that the power dynamic in most schools is like a hierarchy. Everyone has their own power, but the amount of power differs depending where the individual falls in this hierarchy.
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