Good communication matters when it comes to improving teaching/learning programs. Regular, consistent communication about what we've done, what we are doing now, and where we are headed are essential when it comes to supporting the team and your own work well.
Our team takes that communication seriously and we keep family members and colleagues in the loop consistently wth regard to what we have done, are doing, and will do at school. This has fostered a strong and collaborative learning community--the kind of community that supports one another with good questioning, shared ideas, and supportive effort. This matters.
Of course, it's important to make sure that communication is face-to-face as well as online. Emails, texts, and websites are great, but we need time for face-to-face conversations too. Fortunately our teaching/learning schedule includes a weekly newsletter as well as twice-a-year student/family conferences, regular weekly collegial meetings, and impromptu personal meetings when needed.
In some areas of school life, communication is less rich and complete. In those areas, it appears that some think of information as only for some and not for others. For example, I wish that teachers would receive communication from the regular curriculum meetings that happen. That kind of communication would help us to know what our curriculum leaders are thinking about and planning for with regard to curriculum growth. I also wish that we received more regular inclusive communication from coaches and others who support our work. Currently that information is not that inclusive or complete.
Of course, people are shy about over communicating, and I've heard many teachers and families express dissatisfaction with too many emails and newsletters. There's a good balance that every professional decides on. I have chosen to communicate a lot because I have found that those who want to know what's going on appreciate that, and those that don't want to know or that don't have the time know don't have to read the information and where to go if they have a question.
Good communication is essential to developing and strengthening a sense of good teamwork and result. When good communication is missing, conjecture occurs and conjecture can easily lead teams down less desirable paths of good work and effort. Onward.