If “the work of the school is determined by the needs of society”, as the prolific educator Francis Parker claimed, we have a deep challenge in front of us as schools and colleges rest up for a new academic year. The frantic pace of change in the past two academic years have left educators depleted of energy and some campus communities polarized by divisive issues. We have some restorative work to do in the future.

Not long ago, campus communities were seen as enlightened and hopeful places - safe harbors - in times of political turmoil and social unrest. They were places that rose above the political fray to create communities of safe discourse; they placed personal and community wellbeing at a premium; and they held close their mission and North Star. Today, many campus communities are at risk of falling into the same polarizing tribal behaviors that have so divided America, such as media, social media, and the politization of social issues, contributing to the culture wars.

The work ahead will be critical to the future of the education industry. Schools and colleges will be well-served to look beyond the current needs of their audiences and into their real reason for existence. They will look deeply at their mission, vision, and their core values, using them as the foundation for restoring community. And, if their mission, vision, and core values don’t provide the clarity needed for the task, they will be well-served to sharpen those elements in this critical time. They will need to be clear about their contribution to the future in a rapidly changing landscape.