ECHELON SCHOOL STUDIES

We often replicate what we know, what we see peers or colleagues doing, or what feels comfortable. Visiting schools in different cities (or within your own city) that do not look or feel anything like where you went to school or where you teach can help you step outside of your comfort zone. This creates the possibility to envision something different for students, or even see oneself in a teacher or a leader you meet.

When we travel to new places together, be it with other educators or with community members in a different profession, we inevitably make connections. Joining in conversations on a school visit can highlight the many ways in which the work of leaders overlap. Furthermore, participating in school visits allows for organic connections with teachers or leaders at other schools that might be great to collaborate with or share ideas.

An easy one to neglect, celebrating progress is an important reason for going on school visits! It is tempting to only aspire for something different or not acknowledge existing successes. Visiting other schools can be a great way to see similarities with practices you are already using or innovative ideas that your school is already implementing well.