All of the standard approaches, procedures and
technology—both in the space ship and at Mission Control—had to be rethought and
reinvented on the spot! The standard operating procedures were out the window. Their
very survival depended on teamwork because the job was too big to do it alone!
Our job, too, is going to be a big one this year—and
it's going to require the teamwork of parents, staff, students, civic organizations and
agencies to get the job done right for our children.
From research, we know that effective teams . . .
• set high standards of excellence,
• are clear about their vision and mission,
• have a spirit of innovation
• make time for team planning and problem solving,
• listen empathetically,
• celebrate successes and learn from failures,
• are optimistic and enthusiastic about the possibilities,
• build joy into their work.
The best teams care about each other. They have fun
together! They know that the greatest medicine for any problem is not anger, not
bitterness, not cynicism—but laughter and caring and a willingness to try.
Teamwork produced a miracle aboard Apollo 13. Working as
an effective team, we can create miracles too. United, we have the power to produce a year
of joy and excellence for our children—and for each other!
