Originally published in LLL US Western Division’s Connections #94, March/April 2001
It was the first month in our sons’ new school district, and I received an invitation to go to a “Newcomers’ Meeting†at the school administration office with other move-in parents and the superintendent. I was expecting folding chairs, bad coffee, and long speeches.
We ten newcomers entered a small conference room where there were doughnuts, fruit, orange juice, and some actually pretty good coffee set out for us. We came from all over the northern hemisphere including me, representing my family newly arrived from Nova Scotia, Canada.
Dr. Scholtz introduced himself and gave us some brief facts about Hampton Township School District. Then he asked us to introduce ourselves and describe what programs really worked at our former schools, and what things we’d like to see added at Hampton. It was the most respectful, effective, and welcoming strategy I’ve ever experienced at a meeting with new people.
The couple from California asked that he consider adding a Model United Nations program to the high school. A couple from a nearby district liked the intramural sports at their former middle school. I asked that the district emulate Canada’s mandatory foreign language classes starting in fourth grade.
Dr. Scholtz asked us questions and took notes on his legal pad. Our ideas weren’t immediately analyzed. He didn’t laugh or shake his head when we talked. He didn’t immediately reject our ideas as impossible, too expensive, or not within the Hampton educational culture. He was open and curious. He listened, and he recorded.
When La Leche League Leaders move between Districts, Areas, Divisions, and countries, it might be wise for in-place Leaders and administrators to remember Dr. Scholtz’s approach. What were the things that the Leader really liked about her last Group and Chapter? What programs might this former Area Council member suggest that her new Area implement? What ideas at this Leader’s last Area Conferences might help the new Area grow and prosper? What fundraisers or opportunities might she like to see offered in her new Division?
Each relocating Leader brings an opportunity for positive change and growth to her new location. A simple phone call, e-mail, or chat at an Area event with this attitude of openness and interest in a Leader’s former work and LLL environment might be a great way to start an enthusiastic relationship. Attention to fresh ideas, a welcoming attitude, and a forum for listening to new perspectives are healthy strategies for a welcoming region. Investing in newcomers bring rewards for everyone.
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