Beyond Grades: Building Joyful and Inclusive School Communities With Richard Milner IV

   

Topics: Curriculum and Instruction, Health and Wellness, Middle Level, Principal Pipeline, Professional Learning, School Culture and Climate, Student Engagement

“There is a difference between educating and schooling…and we need to understand that difference.”

Richard Milner IV


In this episode, Richard Milner IV, Cornelius Vanderbilt Chair of Education, will teach you how to create joyful, inclusive school environments that prioritize growth, mentorship, and meaningful learning experiences.

Hosted by NAESP member, author, and keynote speaker Adam Welcome, NAESP Leadership Conversations returns for Season 2, offering fresh insights and professional growth opportunities from top educational thought leaders. In each conversation, you’ll discover innovative strategies to enhance your leadership, foster collaboration, increase job satisfaction, and gain practical tools to apply in your daily work.

 Top Takeaways:

  1. The Role of Teacher Prep Program-Teacher preparation programs are crucial, but their quality and effectiveness can vary significantly.
  2. The Power of Staff Meetings– Staff meetings should focus on fostering continued learning and professional growth.
  3. Rethinking Homework– Homework should incentivize engagement and prioritize project-based learning approaches.
  4. Joyful School Environment– Schools should be places where students feel welcomed, engaged, and eager to learn.
  5. The Mentorship Cycle- Effective mentoring begins with the experience of being mentored, shaping the ability to mentor others.
  6. Beyond Grades– Principals can measure achievement by focusing on personal growth and societal contribution rather than academic competition.
  7. Celebrating Possibilities– Encouraging vision, reflection, and celebration fosters a culture of positivity and achievement.
  8. Education vs. Schooling– Education nurtures lifelong learning, while schooling often feels like going through the motions.
  9. Learning Beyond the School Building– Education extends beyond traditional classrooms and happens in diverse environments.
  10. Inclusive School Communities– Schools should create spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and seen.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we ensure our teacher preparation and professional development programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of our educators?
  • What strategies can we use in staff meetings to encourage ongoing learning, innovation, and collaboration among team members?
  • How can we redesign homework and classroom activities to inspire curiosity, creativity, and real-world problem-solving?
  • What alternative methods can we implement to assess student and school achievement beyond grades and test scores?
  • How can we create a school environment where every student feels valued, supported, and excited to learn?