I am in the Navy and will get out with 30 years. I am excited to begin my second career as a elementary school teacher, perhaps working in the primary grades. I’ve done really well in the Navy through solid principles, hard work, motivation, and adaptability. One thing I have never been very good at is politics. Usually, I can overcome office politics by being very useful. My wife – a former elementary school teacher before being a Mom – assures me the hard work part will eliminate politics. Do you see many politics being played in school? I am good with people and networking, but sometimes my bosses are all about image and I am not an image guy. Is my wife’s observation true? Will a hardworking, honest, and caring teacher overcome politics via the three attributes I just mentioned?

Sincerely,

Overcoming School Politics