Overcoming the "Us vs. Them" Mentality as School Leaders

As a school leader, you’ve probably felt that “Us vs. Them” tension between admin and teachers. It’s frustrating, right? You’re pulling in one direction, but your team feels like they’re pulling in another. Here’s the truth: that disconnect almost always comes down to trust. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to rebuild that trust and start working as one team again. I’m sharing four areas that can help close that gap and get everyone on the same page:

• Character: Are your actions matching your words? Your team is paying attention.
• Communication: It’s not just what you say—it’s how and when you say it.
• Competence: Are you leading by example and staying sharp in your own learning?
• Care: Are you valuing your people or just focusing on the results they bring in?

I’ll also walk you through ways to shift the mindset from “Us vs. Them” to “We’re in this together.” Because let’s face it, no one wins when the team feels divided.   Heads up! I’ve got something special coming up: The Leadership Collective Live is finally happening! This is your chance to step away from the constant pressure and distractions and spend two days in Orlando, Florida (June 27-29, 2025) resetting, recharging, and refining your leadership. If you’re a high-achieving woman in school leadership who’s ready for real strategies (without all the conference fluff), this was made for you.

🔗 Click the link below for all the details and to grab your spot: https://www.principalpatterson.com/tlc/live  

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Let’s keep working together to create schools of excellence—one principal at a time.