Building Dynamic Teamwork in Schools: 12 Principles of the V Formation to Transform Culture

How can school leaders foster more effective teamwork and collaboration among teachers to improve instruction and culture? Brad Johnson and Robert Hinchliffe use the analogy of geese V formations to show what effective teamwork really looks like for success. They discuss roles and responsibilities--each goose has a role to play in the flock, from leader to follower; the importance of recognizing individual strengths and assigning roles accordingly; and the impact of each team member fulfilling their responsibilities. They also discuss the skills that the teams need in order to work together: working together to achieve a common goal; fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose; adaptability and flexibility; encouragement and support; trust and reliance; and leadership and followership. Each chapter is filled with strategies and examples for leaders in any setting and ends with a Sharpen Your Winning Edge section offering tips you can use immediately.

Brad Johnson (@DrBradJohnson) has over 25 years of experience as a teacher and administrator at the K–12 and collegiate level. He is author of several books and one of the most inspirational and affirmational speakers in education.
Robert Hinchliffe is a successful principal in Las Vegas, Nevada, and has been an administrator for over 18 years. He is the author of the book It’s All About Perspective and hosts a podcast with the same name.