From Vision to Reality: Leadership Moves That Build Positive Culture
By Jennifer Johnson, Principal, Wautoma High School Doesn’t it sometimes seem like certain administrators have this “positive culture” thing completely figured out, while after 22 years I’m still refining the craft? Do all the books, articles, TED Talks, webinars, and even Instagram Reels from the experts really hold the secret to creating a positive school culture? I think these instructional influencers are a lot like me; educators sharing what they’ve learned along the way in hopes of helping others. And honestly, isn’t that how we prefer to learn? By listening to people who speak from real experience? Most presenters don’t claim to have created the perfect environment, but they often make it sound like they have it all figured out. In my writing, you won’t find fancy words or inspirational quotes. You’ll find what I’ve learned, shared the same way I’d talk to you in a conversation. What I’ve learned about communication and creating a positive culture in my 22 years as an administrator is simple: honesty and visibility. It’s an ongoing process that I will never claim to have mastered. But I do know what my staff, parents, fellow administrators, students, and community members value and what contributes to our school’s culture. Even when people disagree with a decision or plan I communicate, they do so respectfully because of the relationships we’ve built. The one quote I’ve carried with me throughout my career from Jackie Robinson: “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” When I find myself spending too much of the day in my office, I know I’m negatively affecting our school environment. Walking the halls between bells, stepping into classrooms for even five minutes, or simply checking in with a staff member creates opportunities for questions, concerns, and clarification. These small moments reduce emails and meetings, but more importantly, they help me keep a pulse on how my staff is feeling and what actions I may need to take. Of course, the greatest impact on school culture comes from knowing your students and truly caring about them. Greeting students, asking about their activities, supporting them when their hand is raised, and offering positive feedback — these simple actions are leadership moves that truly impact lives. As a leader, there will be times when communication feels easy and clear. There will also be times when you aren’t sure what to say or how to say it. In both cases, honesty is always the best approach. Our district is currently going through a reconfiguration that includes closing an elementary building. Throughout this process, communication has been challenging at many levels. One of the most difficult aspects has been discussing staffing changes, knowing how deeply staff members want clarity about their jobs and their futures. I completely understand their concern - it affects their lives and their families. What has made the difference in maintaining our school culture during this time is honesty. There are moments when I have very little information to share and other times when specifics and clear timelines are more available. Regardless of how much information I have, I share what I know honestly and, whenever possible, face-to-face. In every situation, I try to communicate with others the way I would want my own family member or child to be addressed by their principal. That, more than anything else, is what creates a positive school culture. Leadership, whether in education or in a global company, is most effective when it’s grounded in visibility and honesty. Isn’t that what all of us really want, whether the message is uplifting or genuine constructive feedback? Throughout my years in administration, I’ve continued to learn from professional texts, training, and podcasts. They offer ideas and examples that help shape my vision of leadership. But what matters most is how I put those ideas into motion in everyday moments. It’s the small, consistent actions, the conversations in the hallway, the time in classrooms, the honest face-to-face communication, that truly shape a school’s culture. That’s where leadership comes to life.
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