E Pluribus Unum

Abstract

Attempting to build teams within existing cultures often leads to unintended consequences for school administrators. A subculture can become weaker or stronger than the particular department or grade level within which it is housed. Perhaps a team stays so weak that it never becomes as strong or effective as the department; perhaps a grade-level team is so creative and cohesive that it builds a subculture stronger than other grade-level teams. In this case, a principal is faced with the complex issues of understanding grade-level subcultures while making decisions that will groweffective campus teams and, ultimately, building a school culture, creating “one from the many,” as the title of the case suggests. This case is appropriate for courses such as organizational culture, instructional leadership, staff development, teambuilding, or school change. Because of its rich context and multilayered nature, the case may be used most appropriately during multiple class meetings.