(RNS) — Given the terrorist attacks of the last few weeks, one might be forgiven for feeling a bit bleak about the human species, its frequent use of violence and its failure to negotiate solutions. We must be hard-wired for violence. Or perhaps "war is a force that gives us meaning," as Chris Hedges put it in his 2002 book of the same title.
Trust is the most crucial factor during times of change and the single most important factor in the success of schools. Trust among faculty, administration, and parents enhances learning and overall achievement within a school culture. Trust is also fundamental to building friendship, personal relationships, and vibrant community.
As the Christian school strives to cooperate with God's intention to make our institution great, it is imperative that we build a community based on trust. In their groundbreaking book on the impact of trust within school communities entitled "Trust in Schools: A Core Resource for Improvement," authors Anthony Bryk and Barbara Schneider examine three types of trust necessary for school improvement.
