team culture

This post started with a conversation seven years ago in Beijing. Two educators, same school, same work — one inside the classroom, one leading from a whole-school perspective. This is what we both learned about why learning communities succeed or fail. The answer isn't the model. It isn't the vision. It's the team. And teaming isn't a logistical decision. It's the strategy.

There is a moment at the end of the school year that doesn't get celebrated enough. It's not the last day with students or the final checklist. It's the moment you realize you will never be this exact version of your team again. This post is about what strong teams do before summer — and why pausing to reflect, celebrate, and let go is one of the most important things a learning community can do.