A Culture of Excellence
The Aberdeen School District's leadership team kicked off its "A Culture of Excellence" workshop on October 19, 2023. Dr. Andrea Pastchal-Smith, Superintendent of the Aberdeen School District, spearheaded the workshop. Dr. Smith reiterated the importance of teamwork and the value of each team member. Additionally, Dr. Smith highlighted the vision and our mission to orient us toward our goals. After the first meeting, a second meeting took place on October 20, 2023, with the Aberdeen School District's Central Office staff. We participated in team-building games, which were both engaging and instructive! Dr. Smith gave everyone two to three puzzle pieces. The puzzle pieces became a group activity as we worked together to solve the puzzle and were eager to see the results. The puzzle read group hug, and we all thought how neat it was for the puzzle to fit the assignment for the day.
Next, the leadership team had to share goals for the new nine weeks and updates for the first nine weeks. We then transitioned into learning about ourselves and getting the results from the discovery survey that we took the week before. Mrs. Saul explained to everyone what the DISC survey was about. The discovery session was an eye-opener for all. It taught us that although we may see ourselves one way, others may see us differently. The survey gave us the results, and we had to stand with our groups. Some of us knew, but others were appalled at the results, and we all laughed as we figured each other out.
Before going outside, we signed the Creating "A" Culture of Excellence contract. This contract is not only on paper, but it is instilled in our vision as well. We all agree that to build and maintain A Culture of Excellence, we must feel respected. We must treat each other fairly and support one another. We should be involved and included in each other's work affairs, and inclusion will flow into the schools and community. We must be effective listeners, which will lead to effective communication. We vowed to keep each other motivated and motivate others in the district and community. We agreed that confidentiality in the workplace is critical to effective listening as well as effective communication.
We picked a number, were issued blindfolds, and moved outside for a trust walk. The walk was challenging for some because we had to be quiet while listening to our partner. The partner's goal was to guide us safely through the obstacle course. No one fell or was injured during this activity. At the end of the obstacle course, the partners switched roles. It is often difficult to walk blindfolded when you're used to leading. This activity instilled the importance of trust and reciprocity in each of the participants.
Lunch was served at the end of the workshop in honor of Boss's Day. We appreciate each other, and we hope to spread A Culture of Excellence throughout the Central Office, the Aberdeen School District, and the Aberdeen Community by showing what it looks like to embody excellence daily!
