It’s no secret that the most successful all-school initiatives have faculty support. Enter the Sunshine Club: a faculty-led group charged with making life brighter during the school year.
A typical Sunshine Club collects annual dues, and that money can be used in a variety of ways. Some Sunshine Clubs focus on whole-faculty treats and activities. Others specialize in celebrating with birthday treats or sending condolences when teachers experience a loss. Whatever your group decides to dedicate itself to, the outcomes are clear: Sunshine Clubs bring good vibes and fun to school communities. Here’s how to ensure that the Sunshine Club at your school is successful.
Let teachers lead.
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Teachers are experts on their needs. They know what small supplies and pick-me-ups help them get through the day. Give them the freedom to meet the needs they see and prepare to be impressed.
Establish clear goals.
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Most groups will need a simple directive to get started. Specific guidelines make the group’s mission clear. There are many great examples of sign-up printables online.
Make team-building less administrator-centric.
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Here’s the truth: No one likes “ required fun. ” Feel-good initiatives and activities are more meaningful when they’re led by the faculty themselves. Empower your team, and you will see how it changes your culture!
Provide practical support.
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As an administrator, your role is to support Sunshine efforts, not dictate them. Look for ways to show your support without overstepping.
Boost morale.
I’m still at a loss of words. #SunshineClub pic.twitter.com/YXFP5MHOpm
— Bradley Strathmeyer (@DASD_BStrath) September 21, 2018
Not everything costs a lot of money! Creative Sunshine Clubs will find free or inexpensive ways to make people smile.
Let faculty claim end-of-the-year celebrations.
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If being a cruise director is not your forté, a Sunshine Club can be a godsend when it comes to faculty celebrations. Peer-to-peer connection is a powerful and underused resource. This is a great way to build these connections!
Somewhere in your school, there is a group of teachers longing for the opportunity to lead! A Sunshine Club will give them the chance to build their skills as they transform school culture.
Does your school have a Sunshine Club? Share with us in our Principal Life Facebook group.