In the rush to improve teacher performance and student outcomes, district leaders often focus on doing more: more initiatives, more assessments, more meetings. But what if the key to better supporting your teachers lies not in what you do, but in what you don’t do? By removing unnecessary burdens and fostering an environment that prioritizes creativity, flexibility, and connection, you can create space for teachers to thrive.
We want our students to explore, reflect, and grow – teachers need the same opportunity. Therefore, how can we create a culture amongst our teachers where curiosity and experimentation are emphasized and valued? My suggestion is by first looking at what not to do.
1. Don’t Schedule Every Minute
Just like students, teachers need space to think, reflect, and innovate. Avoid over-scheduling professional development days and administrative meetings. Give teachers time to collaborate and reflect on their practice.
2. Don’t Promote a One-Size-Fits-All Model
Teaching is an art, and each educator brings their unique style. Stop pushing rigid lesson plans or teaching models across the board. Instead, encourage teachers to customize their methods to meet their students' needs.
3. Don’t Engage in the “Theater of Envy”
Resist the urge to constantly compare performance across schools or classrooms. Your focus should be on helping teachers grow from where they are, not on how they stack up against others.
4. Don’t Rely Solely on Data
While data is essential, it shouldn’t be the only tool in your toolbox. Encourage administrators and educators to engage more in conversations with students and colleagues to get a fuller picture of what’s working and what needs adjustment.
5. Don’t Evaluate Before Observing
It’s easy to enter a classroom with preconceived notions. Practice separating observation from evaluation. Approach classroom visits with an open mind, ready to learn, and you’ll foster a culture of respect and continuous improvement.
By letting go of over-scheduling, rigid structures, and excessive evaluations, you create a district culture that values growth, creativity, and collaboration. Your teachers—and ultimately your students—will thrive in the open spaces you provide.
Jason McKenna is V.P. of Global Educational Strategy for VEX Robotics and author of “What STEM Can Do for Your Classroom: Improving Student Problem Solving, Collaboration, and Engagement, Grade K-6.” His work specializes in curriculum development, global educational strategy, and engaging with educators and policymakers worldwide. For more of his insights, subscribe to his newsletter.
