Monday, November 3, 2008
RES ILT Meeting Norms
I have created this blog for the members of the ILT committee at Redding Elementary School. After our meeting on Monday, November 3rd, we have decided to discuss cultural norms at RES. Our first goal is to establish norms for our ILT committee meetings. Does anyone want to begin?
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14 comments:
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~Carrie
I am thinking that you want one of us to start a list of possible "meeting norms" I was thinking of a few different things, but here are two specific things. . .
1. Arrive on time
2. Be a "Wide Awake Listener" (be focused and listening carefully to the speaker not distracted by other conversations or tasks)
Kate
I agree with Kate's suggestions and would add...
3. Differentiate between brainstorming and discussion
4. Feel responsible to express differing opinions within the meeting
5. Maintain confidentiality regarding disagreements expressed during the meeting
Stephanie
I would agree with Kate and would add...
~ all ideas, concerns, and questions are worth sharing/hearing;
Diane
To go along with the list of norms, we should return to what we said we'd like to do--bring our strengthfinder frame stating our signature themes to each meeting--we can store them in the room.
I'd like to add that we have a structure to the meeting similar to EIT so we don't run out of time.
The agenda seems to already state the goals of each meeting. The agenda also holds more than one person's topics; perhaps we can a lot an amount of time for each person in order to get to everyone's topic.
We could have a wrap-up to each meeting where we summarize what we have accomplished and place agenda items on for the next meeting that need require further conversation.
Cathy
To go along with the list of norms, we should return to what we said we'd like to do--bring our strengthfinder frame stating our signature themes to each meeting--we can store them in the room.
I'd like to add that we have a structure to the meeting similar to EIT so we don't run out of time.
The agenda seems to already state the goals of each meeting. The agenda also holds more than one person's topics; perhaps we can a lot an amount of time for each person in order to get to everyone's topic.
We could have a wrap-up to each meeting where we summarize what we have accomplished and place agenda items on for the next meeting that need require further conversation.
Cathy
I think the health of the group (ILT) and ultimately the school community depends on people being able to dialogue openly and honestly. Respecting what each brings to the table is, in my mind, a sign of leadership. Change can be hard to accept. I am grateful to have this framework (establishing norms) to guide us.
Joanie
I agree with all of the suggestions thus far. I would like to add to Cathy's response about having a protocol. Perhaps we could allow the person presenting the item a few minutes to explain, and then some time for discussion. This would help keep us efficient, yet will allow everyone's opinion to be heard.
Sorry, the last comment was from Carrie...am using a friend's computer.
Carrie
I like what I am reading.
I would like to suggest that we practice what we are preaching to our students. Focus as a staff on the Pillars of Character. For example, Repecting and accepting individual positions as a staff member and developing a positive working environment.
Judy
Melissa's Thoughts:
I wrote an eloquent comment, but it didn't post correctly, so let me try again...
I think we should look at our agenda process. Often there are lengthy items that don't appear on the agenda ahead of time. Maybe we can approximate how much time to give each item (I think some teams do this for team meetings, but I don't know how well it works). I also really like including an announcements section at the bottom for topics that don't require discussion. I also think we should look at Roundtable: can we use this time more effectively or should we eliminate it. One other thought: If there are standing or recurrent items, maybe we should schedule them right away at the beginning of the year (i.e. budget process at the October meeting, etc.).
All of these norms are great, however, I second Joanie regarding the RESPECT! It should be a given, in most cases, however I think it is something taken for granted and should be stated as a norm.
Tanya
I would like to see a norm that addresses the following: Sometimes we have brainstormed & discussed an issue and it feels like time to make a decision or have a decision made for us. I would like us to feel comfortable saying we are ready to to make a decision.
At times, a group facilitator would like to hear from members of the group- particularly those who haven't shared their thought/opinions. I would like it to be the norm for a facilitator to feel comfortable asking a team member what they think and for the team member to respond honestly and respectfully.
Liz
I like what has already been posted relative to norms for our meetings. I do feel, however, that in this case, less is more. I think that when we meet next week, we should be prepared to narrow our list of norms to those we feel are most important.
Cheryl
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