School Culture: What Leaders Allow and Do

Have you ever wondered why some schools feel vibrant and positive while others seem stuck in negativity? The answer lies not in catchy slogans or mission statements, but in something far more fundamental.

School culture—that invisible force shaping everything from staff morale to student achievement—boils down to a surprisingly simple formula: what leaders consistently allow and what leaders consistently do. This isn't about perfect leadership or elaborate initiatives. It's about the power of everyday decisions that either strengthen or undermine your educational community.

When you allow gossip to spread unchecked, when negativity goes unaddressed, or when low effort becomes the norm, these elements define your culture regardless of what inspiring quotes decorate your hallways. Your silence as a leader speaks volumes. Conversely, when you consistently recognize achievements, follow through on commitments, and remain visible throughout your building, you cultivate environments of trust, respect, and excellence.

For educators scrolling through social media feeling inadequate against the seemingly perfect classrooms they see, remember: these platforms showcase highlight reels, not reality. Behind those immaculate bulletin boards are copier jams, challenging student behaviors, and lesson plans that didn't quite land. The comparison between someone else's curated image and your complete reality is inherently unfair. What makes you effective isn't perfection but presence—showing up consistently even when things aren't flawless.

As you navigate this school year, consider asking yourself two critical questions: "What am I currently allowing that I need to address?" and "What am I currently doing that I need to continue or change?" The answers will illuminate the culture you're actually building, not just the one you aspire to create.

Share this episode with another educator who might benefit from this perspective, leave a review, and consider sharing your own story on the show. Every educator has valuable insights that deserve to be heard. Together, we can build school cultures where both students and staff thrive.

www.EdwardDeShazer.org

Chapters

• 0:00 School Culture: What Leaders Do
• 1:47 Behind-the-Scenes vs. Social Media Highlight Reels
• 4:00 What Makes Authentic School Culture
• 6:24 What Leaders Allow Becomes Culture
• 8:51 Be Intentional, Not Perfect
• 10:28 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action