This is Mr. Funky Teacher with BeAFunkyTeacher.com. I'm coming to you with another Be a Funky Teacher podcast. I am so excited to be here with you because today we're going to be talking about new school, new teammates, new trust—building staff relationships from day one. Before we get into it, though, let's talk about three things I'm thankful for. One thing I am thankful for is my wife and her relationship with our kids. It's been kind of a crazy week—working longer hours, getting my classroom set up, getting things sorted out, getting ready for students. I've been coming home late, but last night when I got home, my wife told me she had taken our son out to get some school supplies. She did it intentionally so she could have time with him, talk about football practice, and check in with him. I love that about her—how purposeful she is about building relationships with our children. Another thing I'm thankful for is awkward beginnings, because strong relationships have to start somewhere. Those first interactions can feel uncomfortable—you're not sure what to say, what to joke about, what's appropriate—but that’s part of crossing the bridge into meaningful relationships. The third thing I'm thankful for is unexpected staff connections. I had a few of those moments yesterday, and they’re helping me understand the culture of this new school and what it feels like to become part of a new staff family. Now let’s get into the topic: new school, new teammates, new trust—building those staff relationships from day one. I'm leaving a district where I taught for over 20 years. I knew the rhythms, the faces, the unspoken staff culture. I loved the educators I worked with. It was hard to leave a district where I felt woven into the fabric of the community. Now I'm entering a district where no one knows my story yet, and I don't know theirs. And that's okay—that’s part of being new. This isn’t just my new job; it’s a reintroduction of who I am as a teammate, as a colleague, and as someone who cares about school culture. When you're the new teacher, you're not just trying to fit in—you’re trying to find where you belong. Here's what I’ve noticed at Winnebago so far: people show up for each other. I’ve already had conversations with administrators, fellow teachers, and other new staff, and I can feel that they support one another. There are five of us new to the district, all experienced teachers, and we're navigating this together. Yesterday, when all the staff returned, the opening meeting was filled with laughter. People weren't just going through motions—the warmth felt genuine. You don’t build school culture with policies; you build it with people who choose to care out loud. Even though it’s early, I don’t feel like I have to prove myself. I feel like I'm being invited to be myself. Of course, the district has high expectations—that’s why they hired me—but there's no pressure to perform or impress. It feels like they’re saying, “Be who you are. Bring your strengths. We want you here.” That’s a powerful feeling for any educator entering a new space. So how am I building staff relationships? First, I’m trying to listen more than I talk. I’m asking staff about students, challenges, and what excites them. I’m learning about their backgrounds and experiences—not in a creepy way, but in a professional, curious way. Second, I’m being visible—not just present. I’m showing up early and staying late in these first days, not because I want to burn myself out, but because the early weeks are foundational. I want colleagues to see me, know I'm committed, and feel that I’m part of the team. Third, I'm stepping into shared spaces even when it would be easier to hide in my classroom. Yesterday there was a staff breakfast. I could’ve stayed in my room to get more work done, but I chose to go. I grabbed a breakfast burrito, said hello to people, met new colleagues, and experienced some genuine warmth through the awkwardness. I'm glad I went. That visibility matters. Fourth, I’m celebrating early and often. When I hear a good idea, I say so. When someone shows effort, I thank them. I’m trying to bring positive energy—not toxic positivity, but genuine appreciation for others. I also spent time connecting with my new paraprofessional. She’s Native, knows the community well, and has valuable experience. I’m grateful to have her in the classroom. She may have reservations about me, and that’s normal. We're both learning each other, and that takes time. Another thing I’m working on is staying curious, not critical. When I don’t understand a system, I ask, “Can you explain how this works?” Not in a confrontational way, but in a curious way. Tone matters. You can say the same sentence two different ways and it will land completely differently. After 22 years, I know I’ve said things poorly at times, and I reflect on those moments. When you know better, you do better. For teachers starting fresh—whether new to the profession or new to a district—here’s my advice: Be patient. Relationships take time. Trust cannot be rushed. Don’t isolate yourself. Say yes to sitting with someone new. Go to the optional meetings or gatherings. Be visible. Be open. You don’t have to be polished or impressive. Just be real. Give people grace. They don’t know your story yet. Everyone has insecurities, fears, and hopes at the start of a new school year. Remember it’s a two-way street. You build a positive school culture not by having the answers, but by showing up with consistency and care. New school, new teammates, new trust—this is meaningful work. I’ll build on these ideas in future episodes. As always, I want you to remember to inspire greatness in young people, and don’t forget to be a funky teacher. Bye now.