Good morning, Vikings!
We've all heard the saying, 'Rules are made to be broken,' but can you imagine a society functioning without rules? We often admire those who are mavericks and break rules in ways that challenge the norms, but rules are very useful. Essentially rules act as guidelines so we know what to expect from others and how to conduct ourselves. Rules set boundaries and this is something that is essential for children to learn. As adults, we must also adhere to the rules, or we can expect anarchy. We must lead by example and show that not "anything goes," and this can be accomplished by explaining the rules.
Imagine trying to win a chess game if you don't understand the rules. It seems simple that you need to understand the role of each piece and how they work together to build a good chess strategy, yet so often administrators do not explain the rules to their teams. This leaves staff frustrated, confused, or apathetic because the expectations are unclear. Does your staff know your district's core values? Have you invested time in defining core values and communicating the district or school culture to every team member?
You can't shoot for a common goal without defining the playing field. Of course, nobody likes rules, but if you put them in context, they generally make sense. You need to explain the function of the rules. They are not there to control and smother but to clearly define the structure and means to winning.
What Can Be Done
- Prioritize and establish a few rules that are the most important. It is best to have only three or four rules. More than that can overwhelm children, setting them up for failure.
- Involve staff, students, and family members in setting rules at your schools. This helps obtain buy-in, increasing the likelihood of success.
- Make sure the rules are clear and that they address what they are intended to address. If they do not, brainstorm together alongside your team on how they can be clarified or changed.
- Do not assume, make sure both adults and children understand exceptions to the rules (such as if safety needs to come first).
- Make the rules positive and action oriented. Save "don't" for specific safety situations. For example, "Treat each other with respect," rather than "Don't fight, don't hit, don't push" (This area can be spelled out and discussed while you are getting to know one another).
- Rules should grow with the child. Change them as needed to meet the needs of the child and the current situation.
- Be consistent.
Focus on success…create rules to help children succeed.
Together We Can,
Together We Will Be Game Changers.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Triplett
