Search Institute

If you’re of a “certain age,” the Sesame Street’s “Who Are the People in Your Neighborhood” probably transports you back to being parked in front of a t.v. (perhaps black and white) and grubbing on an afternoon snack (in my case cookies with carob chips). Perhaps the song might be up for some new application now that you’re “old.”

We don’t often think of our schools in these terms, but a single school is like a small city, made up of different services, constituents, and yes – neighborhoods. While a school staff at large is a community in itself, the school is broken down into smaller neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are probably unofficially named in your building. There could be the “math and science floor.” Or perhaps there’s the “special education rooms.” If that’s the case, that means that within these sections are neighbors. And if that’s true, then getting along with your neighbors might very well be as critical to you in your work as it is to you when you’re at home.

In our neighborhoods, we strive to get along with our neighbors because we know the quality of those relationships lead to a sense of belonging, safety, and nurturing. When we don’t get along with our neighbors or when their behavior doesn’t allow us to enjoy our own homes, we feel the horrible pressure and tension of having something sacred – our space – infringed upon.

The same came be true within the neighborhood in which you teach and work. Unsatisfying or stressful relationships with your neighbors at school can lead to unnecessary tension, sadness, or nerves about coming to work. You’re going to spend more time with these “neighbors” than your real neighbors, so these relationships are not minor details to your life and work. So sit on the front porch, say hello, and keep your lawns mowed.