SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS
CULTURE STATEMENT
At the heart of SOE is a clear and unwavering priority: Kids First! Every decision, action, and interaction is grounded in our mission to serve and empower our students. Our team culture reflects this purpose and supports our shared commitment to a professional, positive, and people-centered environment.
GROWTH
COMMUNITY
RESPECT
OUR VALUES
We cultivate a work culture rooted in respect, professionalism, and warmth. We lead with compassion and integrity, prioritizing open, honest, empathic, and transparent communication. Our team holds itself accountable—not only to our responsibilities but to one another—with a shared commitment to collaboration, community, and making decisions that always put kids first.
OUR ATTITUDES
We believe in creating a supportive, upbeat, and positive environment where students, staff and volunteers feel valued. We foster a learning culture that champions continuous improvement and growth. While we maintain high standards, we reject perfectionism as a barrier to progress. Instead, we embrace a mindset of doing your best, knowing that “your best” may look different day to day. We are proactive problem solvers, active listeners, and approach each challenge with curiosity and care.
We assume the best in each other, appreciate feedback, and stay united by our passion for the mission.
OUR BEHAVIORS
We show up for each other with respect, kindness, and support. We communicate clearly, actively, and professionally. New ideas are welcomed and appreciated, and we are dedicated to follow-through in every commitment we make. Our team consistently delivers high-quality work—not perfection—but excellence rooted in care.
We take pride in our roles, our spaces, and our shared success, and we recognize and celebrate growth and accomplishments at every level.
OUR NORMS
We normalize putting Kids First, fostering a workplace that is respectful, flexible, and safe for everyone to learn and grow. We take personal initiative, step out of comfort zones, and support one another as we challenge ourselves professionally. We value a culture of professionalism, continuous learning, and work-life integration.
OUR TRADITIONS
We make time to celebrate success, share stories of impact, and reflect on our journey together. Seasonal and staff gatherings bring us together in community. We treat professional development as a priority and continuously seek input from staff to evolve and enhance our programs.
OUR COMMUNICATION CULTURE
Communication is the backbone of our teamwork. We emphasize proactive, professional, and transparent communication at all levels. Every team member is encouraged to ask questions, seek clarification, and offer ideas—without fear of judgment. Feedback is welcomed and received with openness and appreciation.
OUR ENVIRONMENT
We work in spaces that are clean, safe, well-resourced, and welcoming. Trust, support, and positive rapport are foundational to how we operate. Staff input on needs, improvements, and systems is not only welcomed—it is actively solicited and acted upon.
OUR LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY
Our leadership is driven by support, collaboration, and empowerment. We lead with humility, knowing that mistakes are opportunities to learn. We value timely decisions, clear expectations, and a nimble, flexible approach to problem-solving. Our leaders are committed to continuous improvement, shared accountability, and celebrating the wins—big and small.
IN SUMMARY:
We believe that putting Kids First starts with how we treat each other. SOE is united by our mission and our culture. Together, we are building an organization where passion, respect, growth, and community are not just values—they are lived, every day.
