In Praise of Education Conference

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Wyoming School University Partnership sponsored "In Praise of Education" conference. Among the many outstanding discussions was the opening panel session entitled Why Institutions in a Democracy Matter. The panel explored Hugh Heclo's book, On Thinking Institutionally and the concept of institutional thinking was discussed.

According to the panelists, the author contrasts two baseball players, one an example of institutional thinking who plays the game the way it is supposed to be played and another more interested in individual accolades and personal achievements. The conversation raised a question for me around the differences between those who think at an institutional or global level and those who think on a more individual level.

A tension exists between these two types of thought and resolution is found through conversation on the issues. A superintendent's panel that convened at the National Network for Educational Renewal (NNER) annual conference this fall discussed this topic and summed it up. "The tension between individual and institutional thinking is resolved through conversation and dialogue" is the paraphrased version of the summarization.

One of the important aspects of both the NNER and the Partnership is the opportunity to discuss high level topics in-depth. Without these opportunities, educators and leaders may not have the variety of opinion or expertise to reflect fully on an issue. The foundation of good decision making is getting pertinent information into the dialogue. I am thankful for the opportunity to participate in the many conversations around education. I would encourage you to learn more about the NNER and the Partnership.