Significant Career Lesson From a School Board Member at Los Angeles Unified School District
Tanya, a Los Angeles Unified School District School Board Member, emphasizes the importance of "making time to listen to others and to build relationships," even with those holding opposing views. This approach, crucial in navigating the often divisive four-three votes on the seven-member board, allows for maintaining "collegiality" and respecting the diverse perspectives within the community, ultimately serving the best interests of students.
Communication, Teamwork, Leadership, Problem-Solving, Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Tanya Ortiz Franklin
School Board Member
Los Angeles Unified School District
Columbia University 2005
Loyola Marymount University, MA Elementary Education; UCLA School of Law JD, Public Interest Law & Policy, Critical Race Studies
Political Science, American Studies
Education
Education
Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Building relationships is crucial, even with those who hold opposing views.
2. Effective communication and listening skills are essential for collaboration and decision-making in a diverse environment.
3. Respecting different perspectives and opinions is key to maintaining collegiality and achieving consensus, even when disagreements arise.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
I think making time to listen to others and build relationships, even with those with whom you don't agree, is important. I serve on a seven-member board, and when we have controversial votes, it's often a four-three split.
It's challenging to then have the next conversation with someone with whom you vehemently disagree in public. But taking the time to listen and respect someone else's personal trajectory, that's led to their individual opinions, is really important.
This is important for maintaining our collegiality. It's also remembering that I serve diverse voices, even if I make a decision that I think is best for kids. Sometimes there are other, just as valid, decisions that are important to be respectful of.