This episode takes us back to a Teacher Support Group I led over a decade ago at a school steeped in chaos. What seemed like an unproductive, blame-filled space was actually an unconscious mirror of the school’s deep dysfunction—a fascinating concept called parallel process. Joe and I examine how systemic issues infiltrate individual classrooms and what teachers can do to cultivate a healthy learning environment against incredible odds.
Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
We talk about
how the group’s dynamic echoed the school’s wider culture of chaos
what makes school holding environments chaotic
a gendered pattern of blame
empowering strategies for teachers to cultivate healthy classroom cultures
For my non-teachers out there: The dynamics of group behavior, the impact of leadership, and the power of individual action within a dysfunctional system apply far beyond school walls.
Have a story about your school’s culture, or a time you navigated chaos? Share it with me: 413.239.4158. If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving a review or rating on your podcast app. It helps us reach more teachers!
External Links
Credits
Founder and Host: Betsy Burris
Co-Host: Joe Johnson
Producer: Jullian Androkae
Audience Development: Andreea Coscai
Music: Tom Burris/Jabbering Trout
