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The Leader's Lens: Fostering Meaningful Dialogue in Polarized Times

Updated: Jan 22

A group of teachers and maybe parents agreeing to disagree in polarized times

School Leaders:

This month’s Leader Network Roundtables focused on a critical theme: fostering meaningful dialogue in a polarized world—an essential skill for creating a culture of understanding and growth in school communities.


Here are three principles to guide this work:

  • Create Safe Spaces for Dialogue: Leadership requires ensuring everyone feels heard.  Building an environment where tough conversations happen without fear is foundational. (Resource: Managing a Polarized Workforce, Harvard Business Review)​

  • Lead with Empathy and Understanding: Even in disagreement, recognizing the dignity of others helps bridge divides. (Resource: Dignity Index, Tim Shriver & Tom Rosshirt)

  • Ask Honest, Open Questions: Thoughtful questions lead to deeper connections. Focus on listening, not just responding. (Resource: Conversing When Disagreeing Politically, American Psychological Association)​.

We encourage you to reflect:

  • When have you seen your school engage in its most open, productive conversations?

  • What leadership practices made those conversations possible?

  • How can you expand on those practices for even deeper connections?


By leveraging these insights, we can continue to lead with empathy, clarity, and courage—helping our communities grow stronger and more resilient.


With best wishes and high hopes,

Bernie & Jim


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