"People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
-Theodore Roosevelt.
Creating a strong culture within your Catholic school begins with how you approach and value each member of your team. Are you simply delegating tasks, or are you actively engaging in ways that inspire and empower? Being a leader means guiding with humility, compassion, and respect for each person’s unique role and contribution. Here are four key principles to guide you:
Serve Your Team
Leadership rooted in service aligns deeply with Catholic values. When leaders serve their team, they foster trust and model Christ-like humility. This could mean stepping in to support during busy times, listening to their challenges, and ensuring they have the resources to thrive. Small acts of service remind your team that you’re invested in their success and wellbeing. When you help your team win, your school wins.
Know Your Team
Take time to understand your team as individuals—their strengths, aspirations, and challenges. Personalized check-ins, team-building events, or even brief, informal chats can help you see beyond roles to the unique contributions each person brings. Knowing them better enriches relationships and strengthens the team.
Care for Your Team
Care goes beyond work tasks. Show genuine concern for their well-being, both professionally and personally. Recognize when they need encouragement, celebrate their successes, and offer grace during tough times. A team that feels cared for will help foster a successful school culture.
Recognize Your Team
Celebrate achievements, big and small. Sincere recognition motivates, boosts morale, and reinforces positive behaviors. And it’s not always about money. Whether through public acknowledgments or a simple “thank you,” recognizing your team’s hard work reminds them they are valued and essential to your school’s mission.
Being intentional as a leader to build your team’s culture creates a foundation for lasting success and growth. A positive, mission-driven culture doesn’t just benefit your staff; it extends to students, parents, and the entire school community. When your team feels supported, valued, and inspired, they’ll pass that same sense of care and commitment on to everyone they serve, helping your Catholic school thrive for years to come. Remember, your school is your mission field, and you can share God’s love with the people with whom you have influence.
