Effective Communication

As many of you know I continually advocate for increased transparency from the DOE for accountability and to limit the proliferation of rumors and misinformation. Unfortunately, far too often school administrations decide for whatever reason not to communicate with their school communities when an incident occurs. Some administrations are forthcoming with information while others remain silent. Many times word travels like the telephone game, except in today's technological world it spreads and grows much faster. The stories also develop much faster twists and embellishments.

​It is understandable that in many cases the school can't release specific details about an incident, but when the incident is deemed under control and safe, schools should communicate with families and members of the school community. In my opinion a simple email, letter or robo-call acknowledging an incident occurred and safety protocols were implemented to ensure the safety of the students and staff should be made. Providing a notification to the school community should be a distinct part of these protocols. Communication would build trust and collaboration between all stakeholders in the school community. Silence breeds mistrust, and gives the illusion that no action is being taken. That can be extremely damaging to a school community.