Dimension 1:

Cultivate trust and relationships

DIMENSION DESCRIPTION

RPPs prioritize and focus on developing trusting relationships within a diverse group of individuals and organizations. Trust and relationships support meaningful collaboration among diverse groups working together to address complex issues in education. A focus on cultivating trust and relationships across communities is critical for repairing decades of damage of education research being done “on” as opposed to “with” students, teachers, schools, districts, and communities.

Developing and nurturing relationships is an ongoing process that needs attention throughout the life of the partnership, especially during times of change like staff or leader transitions, shifts in priorities, or the introduction of new members into the RPP.

Rather than a standalone activity, cultivating and growing trust happens through the work done together. It can take root when partners collaborate regularly, honor their commitments, communicate effectively, raise and address conflicts as they arise, and contribute to decision-making. Building trust also depends on team members supporting one another not only within the partnership but also in their personal and professional lives outside of it. This work may involve learning about and responding to one another’s unique contexts, needs, values, and constraints.

Cultivating trust requires a deliberate focus on power and privilege dynamics, given that partnerships bring together individuals, organizations, and communities with diverse levels of social and political influence, varying histories of marginalization, and a range of prior experiences. Addressing these differences means encouraging meaningful participation among partnership members, especially those with less power historically, rather than simply striving for an “equal voice” for all.

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