Trust at the RED light

Every Tuesday morning I send out a Tuesday Tip by email to my subscribers. If you’d like to receive these Tips, just email me at miriamkfreedman@gmail.com

These Tips are all about TRUST — what it is, why it’s so vital, how to build it, how we need it in schools (and everywhere), how to spot and avoid distrust, how to rebuild it, etc., etc.

I share vignettes –short, very short stories — that I’ve gathered over the years from clients, colleagues, famous people whom I may not know personally, passers-by, relatives, friends, and life itself. You get the picture. Wisdom and humor are everywhere — often in the most surprising places.

Just call me the “TRUST Lady”. After 60+ years in public education — as a teacher, hearing officer, school attorney, author of 8 books and many opinion pieces, speaker, reformer, parent, and grandparent, I’ve come to understand that, far too often, TRUST is the missing piece in our schools. And we sure need it as we work towards an excellent education for all students.

CAVEAT: These Tuesday Tips are intended to be used for general information only. They are not provided as legal or other professional advice. In the event that legal advice is required, the services of an attorney should be sought.

So, here’s the Tip about TRUST AT THE RED LIGHT.

Yesterday I was at the head of a line of cars at a red light, waiting to turn left at an intersection. To make that turn, I had to cross over traffic lanes. The light turned green.

Yet, I didn’t proceed. I waited some more. The car behind me honked. And honked! Then it also started to flash its light. I still didn’t move. Another honk.

Have you ever been there?

Finally, a car crossed over from the left as it passed through the intersection. After that I made my left turn.

That everyday experience made me think. Even here, at a red light, it’s all about TRUST. TRUST in myself/yourself. TRUST to do the right thing — stay safe! You’re there. You know what to do.

Here comes an analogy…. bear with me!

The RED light quandary reminded me of the many IEP (Individualized Education Program) Team meetings I’ve attended (as…