Earlier this year, MASA Director Gary Amoroso shared that the three most important things to consider in education is “relationships, relationships, relationships.” While I believe that this is absolutely true, I also know that these words can seem empty without a clear definition and plan to move forward.
This fall, during our MASA executive committee meeting, Kent Pekel from Search Institute presented, “The Developmental Relationships Framework.” According to Search Institute research, young people are more likely to grow up successfully when they experience developmental relationships with important people in their lives. The elements of these Developmental relationships are:
- Express Care: Show me that I matter to you
- Challenge Growth: Push me to keep getting better
- Provide Support: Help me complete tasks and achieve goals
- Share Power: Treat me with respect and give me a say
- Expand Possibilities: Connect me with people and places that broaden my world
Search Institute provides presentations, activities, and resources to assist school leaders in enhancing these elements within the school system. I found Dr. Pekel’s presentation on this topic to be engaging and persuasive. I encourage school leaders across the state to learn more about this research and consider bringing some of these activities to your staff.
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David Law
Superintendent & MASA President
Anoka-Hennepin School District
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