In March, ninety educators from two Central New York schools participated in a dynamic team-building workshop aimed at fostering stronger workplace relationships and enhancing student engagement through improved communication and collaboration.
The professional development session was led by Tara Smith, Co-CEO of Brilliant Pathways, a nonprofit dedicated to college and career readiness, which supports 13 school districts in and around Cooperstown, NY.
Educators from Richfield Springs and Owen D. Young Central Schools engaged in customized activities tailored for rural schools, recognizing the distinct interpersonal dynamics that differentiate them from suburban and urban districts.
The workshop focused on six key areas: communication, collaboration, dispute resolution, conflict management, problem-solving, and appreciation. Smith emphasized that while some skills seem straightforward, putting them into practice can be challenging.
“Communication is essential in any mission, but it’s often easier said than done,” Smith said. Participants were encouraged to share personal aspects of their lives, revealing that even longtime colleagues had much to learn about each other. This exercise underscored the importance of openness and understanding in professional relationships.
Conflict resolution was also a key theme. Educators engaged in an arm-wrestling exercise where points were awarded when one participant’s hand was pinned down. Two of ten pairs discovered that success came not from opposing one another, but from taking turns—an insightful lesson in how collaboration can turn conflicts into opportunities for progress.
“Conflict, when approached constructively, can be a powerful tool in building strong teams,” Smith noted.
Christine Tucker, Principal at Owen D. Young, praised the experience: “This was an excellent opportunity for our staff to collaborate in mixed groups outside of their usual circles. It also helped them better understand Brilliant Pathways’ Essential Skills™ and how to apply them in school. We are incredibly grateful for Tara’s support and our ongoing partnership.”
The principles taught in the workshop reflect Brilliant Pathways’ Essential Skills™, a set of six competencies that have proven highly effective in preparing students for college and careers over the past 30 years. These skills—often valued but rarely explicitly taught—are integral to both educational and professional success.
Smith highlighted the broader implications of the program: “In today’s world, the ability to express opinions, navigate disagreements, and resolve conflicts in healthy ways is more important than ever—not just in education, but in life. This program gives participants a chance to laugh, appreciate one another, and build stronger connections.”