A Safe Environment for All!

I have always been aware of the need for students to feel safe in order to learn...but did not ever take it to the level of how feeling unsafe effects our ability to participate in complex problem solving. As a teacher I have not experienced fear for my physical safety on many occasions although I have experienced this in my home. My husband is an attorney with the DA's office and we have received some threats over the year causing us to be a little fearful for our family's well being at times. I have never considered a teacher being bullied by coworkers or administrators. I suppose even parent could bully a teacher! Not a very pleasing thought! As I look back I recall a time when I could say I was bullied by a coworker. This did. Ot make for a very pleasant work atmosphere and I responded by withdrawing from the staff and avoiding interactions. It did indeed affect my complex problem solving skills. I lost confidence and even some of my passion for teaching.
Again the importance of communication (especially listening) and being visible and in touch with staff is a quality/characteristic of a good administrator or leader. Bullying among staff does not create an environment that is safe. This leads to mediocre teaching at best. Administrators must be aware and be willing to hold his/her staff accountable to respect for all!