Sunday, September 9

Never being a part of negotiations, even the beginning ground rules were an experience. It was interesting how quickly ideas were presented back and fourth and agreements made. It was difficult not to talk when a comment triggers a new thought or comment. Today’s experience reminds me of the Chinese Proverb, “Tell me and I will forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I’ll understand.” I am beginning to understand, but have a long way to go!

The process today demonstrates the importance of knowing both sides of negotiations and knowing what they will place on the table. As we made proposals, we knew what the other team would propose. We also knew we were O.K. with their proposal. Keeping a poker face and not making acknowledgements is also difficult. I have watched our superintendent over the years at board meetings when an off the wall comment is made and he would not make any recognition of the comment. He often would say to the board president with a straight face we need to move on or that will need to be discussed in close session.

I can also see with a room full of educators it will be difficult to have the silence go for long. This will be an art of negotiation to practice. As superintendent, changing a mind set from “them” and “us” to bringing the sides together is a new concept. The superintendent sets the tone with the board and helps them to understand teachers need to appear to win with their union. It moves the district forward when the majority of the employees are happy with a settlement. As the superintendent, remember it is not about you, but about them.