Welcome to a transformative journey through the pages of Culture by Design, a compelling work by Malcolm Gauld that delves deep into the heart of our education system. In today’s world, many parents express their dissatisfaction with the educational institutions their children attend. A startling statistic from a 2022 Gallup poll reveals that 55% of American parents are “somewhat to completely dissatisfied” with their children’s schools. This overwhelming sentiment is mirrored in the findings of a 2022 CDC survey involving 7,705 high school students, where 44% reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and 9% admitted to having made attempts at suicide.

After dedicating 45 years to teaching and leading schools, Malcolm Gauld offers a candid assessment of the current state of our education system. He states, “We care more about what they can do than about who they are, and they know it.” This poignant observation underscores a critical issue facing our schools today. The emphasis has often been placed on academic performance and measurable skills, while the essential qualities of character and attitude have taken a backseat.

Gauld’s Culture by Design provides a well-structured blueprint for shifting this paradigm. The author advocates for a reordering of priorities in our educational systems, emphasizing the importance of valuing attitude over aptitude, effort over ability, and character over talent. This book serves as a guide for school leaders, educators, and parents who wish to foster a more supportive and nurturing environment for students.

The first step in implementing this change is for school leaders to engage in a thorough and honest evaluation of their school cultures. Every educational institution possesses a culture; the critical question posed by Gauld is, “Is yours by design or default?” Understanding the nature of school culture is fundamental to initiating meaningful change.

In this book, Gauld introduces the Discovery Process, a dynamic school culture improvement program that has been successfully implemented in both public and private schools. This program aligns with national social and emotional learning (SEL) standards, providing a concrete approach to developing a positive culture intentionally.

As you delve into Culture by Design, you will uncover the essential elements that contribute to a thriving school culture. Gauld encourages educators to prioritize emotional intelligence, resilience, and interpersonal skills alongside traditional academic metrics. By doing so, schools can create an environment where students not only excel academically but also develop into well-rounded individuals prepared to face the complexities of life.

In conclusion, Culture by Design is more than just a book; it’s a call to action for educators and school leaders. It challenges us to rethink our priorities and to place greater emphasis on the qualities that truly matter in shaping the future leaders of our society. With its practical insights and actionable strategies, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone committed to creating a positive and impactful school culture.