Adlai Stevenson said, “Criticism is simply the method by which existing ideas and institutions are submitted to the test of principles, ideas, ideals, and possibilities”. This attitude toward examining what we do as professional educators should be subscribed to whole-heartedly. Constructive criticism is never negative. It is always intended to improve our profession.

This ideal is at the heart of the principle of moving from good to great. Every educational institution should be working toward a standard of excellence. An exemplary district will be one that seeks to empower students, staff, and parents in their work toward a better life. We believe education is all about empowering people by giving them the tools they need to improve their lives. Those same principles, ideals, and skills we seek to instill in others will empower us to improve TISD.

Improvement requires a willingness to change. Achieving greatness means always keeping your mind open to new possibilities, testing new ideas, and allowing others the freedom to become great along with you. Through communication, cooperation, and a selfless desire to improve our district; greatness is a possibility!

There is an axiom in the business world that says, “Good is the enemy of great”. The idea seems to be that being good will sometimes bring about an attitude of complacency that obstructs organizations from striving for greatness. Every school district is in the business of education. The product of the business of education is successful students.

Greatness for an organization becomes possible when leaders on every level exhibit excellence and humility. This is an organizational principle that promotes organizational success over individual recognition. The focus is on constantly improving product and services.

Educational organizations, like any other business, measure success by financial strength and product quality. Our product is those students who go on from TISD and exhibit the character and skills of exemplary citizens. When our students have been provided with the motivation and tools they need to achieve greatness, we achieve greatness through them.

One of the most important functions of an organization is communicating a vision that all can enthusiastically share and support. I believe everyone in this district has a shared hope of creating a successful educational system that will help our current and future students live better lives. We begin shaping that hope into a clear vision through effective communication.

Communication is so important that our constitution guarantees us the freedom to speak and make our ideas known. No vision can affect our district or our students if it is not shared. Effective communication creates honesty, trust, and enthusiasm for exemplary work. We want to create a district that will be worthy of others following our example because of the success of the students who graduate from TISD. We want this because we truly believe education makes a difference in people.

Hope, in people of vision, always rises to the level of the challenge. When we understand the problem and communicate openly and honestly, we can create the best possible solutions. Communication borne of the genuine desire to cooperate with others in solving problems brings people together and builds a sense of ownership. Out of that sense of ownership will come a trust and appreciation for the work of others that will foster a positive and consistent communication between all involved.

We all share collectively in the successes of everyone in this district. A vision for the contributions of every person in this work, whether they are students, administrators, faculty, or support staff, should be that they bring clarity, transparency, and a sense of greatness to us all. A great district is one that envisions the safety, security, and future success of students, district employees, and community members. A great district will effectively communicate that vision.

We are doing a good job! Our challenge is to move on to greatness.