CONNECTIONS QUARTERLY FALL 2022
WELCOME
Transitions
I remember when I was a “ younger ” adult talking to my dad and being frustrated by something changing . I was pining that it would be great if things just stayed the same . He said that remaining unchanged is an illusion ; everything is either growing or dying . This insight has stuck with me and forms one of the templates I use to see the world . I also remember hearing an esteemed head of school give a formal talk to a group of visiting independent school people and saying , “ Nothing of significance changed in the 100-year history of our school .” These two thoughts at first glance may seem to be in opposition , but taken together I believe you have a keystone of independent education .
Our schools have always been in constant flux , starting with the welcomes and farewells of the people who make up our communities , to new information to teach , to the methods and tools used to teach . Schools are probably one of the most dynamic institutions around . At the same time , an unbreakable rudder should guide the changes all around us . The comment about nothing changing does not mean the school was stuck in the 19th century , but rather the head meant that the school was founded with a particular mission to form students to be critical thinkers , of good heart , and eager to make the world a better place . A lot of work goes into effectively carrying out that same mission over time .
Our world has had many transitions during the past few years . As educators we know that transitions for both students and adult communities can be difficult . In Amsterdam , Netherlands , I saw a sign on the side of a school building that read , “ I have to change to stay the same .” This quote could be a good goal for the year . For all of our communities to “ remain the same ” great places they have been , we all need to embrace change .
As leaders in our communities , the challenge is to help people learn what to hold on to . While not a sailor , I do know that when sailing you need to know what you can and can ’ t hold on to on the boat — some things will keep you in place as the waves rock , yet there are other things that , if the wind changes , can launch you overboard . In the midst of transitions , we need to come to a greater understanding of what in our communities everyone feels safe holding on to , and what things we can — and in some cases need to — let go of . •
Bob Mattingly , Executive Director of CSEE
CSEE Connections Fall 2022 Page 1