Working in individual silos (classrooms) is no longer acceptable in today’s schools. In order to maximize teacher instruction and student learning we must work together in building, cultivating, and expanding our learning environments.

“Co-Learn”: If you were to walk through the halls of Shekou International School, you would find students working and learning together in flexible learning spaces. Rather than individual desks in rows, students are working in groups on high tables with wheels, on couches and bean bags, as well as in hallways and outdoor spaces. Open spaces have made learning visible with windows instead of walls and a transparent culture where teachers share their teaching and learning on Twitter.

As educators we must do our part in preparing students for the future. Companies and businesses are looking for people that have the capacity to work well with others and problem solve as a group. The ability to co-learn must be a priority for all.

“Co-Work”: I remember my first few years of teaching when I entered my classroom on the first day of school and rarely shared ideas of strategies with colleagues. There was a small window on the classroom door and the only time I really had a visitor was for an official evaluation from the principal.

Today, whether in teaching teams or administrative teams, we strive to use the individual strengths of all members of the team and to work together as a collective unit. During grade level meetings, staff meetings, or leadership meeting, we need to spend more time listening than talking and realizing that more often then not, “we are not the smartest person in the room.” Building on the ideas of one another to come up with the best possible solution will enhance the outcome and benefit the entire school community.

“Co-Lead”: I have been extremely fortunate, in my two administrative roles, to have had partners that truly take the term “co-lead” to heart. Both principals, Jeannie Sung and Scott Paulin, have supported me in my transition to administration and were positive role models and examples of good, quality leadership. They afforded me opportunities to take on different challenges and follow my passions. They included me in crucial conversations and, most importantly, allowed me to fail and pick myself up again. Throughout the entire journey they encouraged me and offered both praise and constructive criticism when needed.

In a world where “Co” is more important than “I”, what are you doing in your schools or organizations to build one another up and truly make a collective difference?