A Guideline for Public School System Culture and Belief Systems

District Alpha is a fictional district. This is a proposed value and belief structure that could be used in your local school district. It provides a guideline and postitive purpose for all those involved in the district.

The culture of District Alpha is characterized by the values and organizational structures within the school that causes it to operate and react in a specific manner. This district nurtures their students to become effective leaders within society and treats each student as an individual with a point of view. This culture exists because staff and students look out for each other's emotional and physical safety. The student is a valued member of the organization and the staff feels more like family than colleagues. The culture of District Alpha is the soul of the school, while the building is the body.

The Superintendent of District Alpha has the task of supporting and leading the culture that emphasizes the importance of learning and has strong leadership guides in the instructional program. The curriculum he or she decides on must have clear goals and high expectations. He will also encourage the positive culture with incentives and rewards to show the district staff and students that they are important and are appreciated. The superintendent will make sound financial decisions that involve parents, teachers, and the community. He will provide buildings that are comfortable and suitable for a safe educational environment. (Butler)