For over 30 years international school leaders, teachers, and counselors have come together for PTC professional learning experiences. Each day of every program begins with a “pearl of wisdom,” a “nugget of knowledge,” or a “gem of inspiration” from one of the participants. We are delighted to offer our readers around the world these powerful stories, insights, and strategies, all dedicated to our shared mission of ever more and better learning for our children.
In this Pearl, Andrew shares how empowering teachers and leveraging collective wisdom can transform school initiatives and create a culture of shared ownership. Reflecting on his experience at an International Baccalaureate continuum school, he highlights the shift that occurred when department heads were trained to analyze student data themselves, leading to meaningful changes in instruction. “You have to use your collective wisdom and you have to give people an opportunity to innovate and to share the best practice,” he explains. By focusing on building skills and creating space for collaboration, teachers were able to identify patterns, adjust their curriculum, and work across departments to better support students. The result was a more engaged staff, stronger student outcomes, and a school culture where “he who does the thinking does the learning” became a driving force for growth.
Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.
Andrew Hay is the curriculum/teaching and learning director/coordinator of the International School Carinthia.
