Sometimes when the workload piles up, it's easy to overlook the significance of tradition and history for the administrator. Yet, these pillars form the bedrock upon which educational institutions have been built and continue to thrive. Let’s delve into why honoring tradition and history is crucial in shaping the future of education.
Tradition in education encompasses a myriad of practices, beliefs, and customs that have been passed down through generations. I'm not talking about the "used to bes" that we all hear from time to time. The idea that "We used to do this" or "We used to be so much better". That is not tradition. That is someone's desire to be better without a plan for how. Many times however, I would have to agree with Neil Diamond in his duet with Barbara Streisand when he sings, "But used-to-bes don't count anymore, they just lay on the floor 'til we sweep them away".
Though that may be the case Neil, there are some traditions and history that should remain. Take, for example, the rituals surrounding graduation ceremonies. The cap and gown, the solemn procession, the handing over of diplomas. These traditions evoke a sense of accomplishment and continuity, connecting today’s graduates with those who came before them. Such rituals instill a sense of pride, belonging, and respect for the institution and its values.
History, on the other hand, provides context and perspective. Every educational institution has a story to tell. It important for the leadership to be good stewards of the story because this narrative shapes the institution’s identity and sets the course for its future.
Knowing and understanding this history allows students and educators alike to appreciate the challenges and triumphs of the past. It instills a sense of responsibility to carry forward the values that have guided the institution through decades or even centuries. Values like integrity, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence can be rooted in that history.
Recently I became the Superintendent of one of the oldest school districts in the State of California. That history was unknown to those around me. When I talked about my discovery, there was a sense of pride that began to develop. We are now caretakers of that history that started before the Civil War in 1857. This history creates an opportunity for students and staff to connect with those long since past that walked the halls and faced similar challenges becoming ambassadors for the institution.
While tradition and history provide a solid foundation, they should not stifle innovation. Education, by its very nature, must adapt to meet the needs of a changing world. Innovations in technology, pedagogy, and curriculum are essential to preparing students for the challenges of the future. In a phrase, we are either expanding or contracting. There is no in between. By understanding what has worked in the past and why, educators can build upon that foundation to create new and effective approaches to teaching and learning.
I love the history of education. I guess I am a nerd in that way. I see tradition and history as guiding lights that illuminate the path forward, not just relics of the past. It reminds us of our roots, anchors us in shared values, and unites us in a common purpose. Let us learn from the lessons of history and honor the legacies that have shaped our present. By doing so, we ensure that future generations will inherit not only knowledge and skills but also a deep appreciation for the timeless principles that underpin a truly transformative education.
Until next time...
