The Most Dangerous Phrase in Education: “We’ve Always Done It This Way”

Change is uncomfortable—but stagnation is far more dangerous. The phrase “we’ve always done it this way” can
quietly hold schools, classrooms, and organizations back from growth, innovation, and improvement. It signals
resistance to new ideas, discourages creativity, and limits potential.

While tradition and experience are valuable, they should never replace reflection and progress. Asking, “Is this the
best way to serve our students?” or “Could we do this better?” invites innovation and continuous improvement.
Growth requires questioning routines, embracing new strategies, and being willing to adjust when something isn’t
working.

Clinging to “we’ve always done it this way” may feel safe, but it keeps excellence out of reach. The most successful
schools, teams, and leaders are those willing to challenge the status quo, learn from mistakes, and push
themselves—and others—toward better outcomes.

Change isn’t easy, but nothing great ever comes from staying the same.

It’s a great day to be a Tiger!!!