We spend more than 1400 hours a year in school. That fact alone, should lead us to be curious about how our own words and actions are influencing others. Are we telling our students and colleagues that they are a person of little worth or ability, or, are we intentionally messaging them that we see their unique talents and invite them to consider actions that will help them develop their strengths? With every word, facial expression, and action we choose, we are actually helping to create one another.
Invitational Education is a simple yet profound framework for creating a shared mindset and way of communicating that messages others that we believe they are able, valuable, and responsible and we are committed to treating them accordingly. When schools involve all staff in learning about Invitational Education and begin to put the theory into practice, everyone is lifted up by the care, optimism, respect and trust they are receiving. Their interest in applying an inviting, "doing with" approach to every aspect of their school grows exponentially.
