This document discusses how there has historically been fear of change in schools. It provides two quotes from 1929 and 1950 that illustrate concerns about new technologies like store-bought ink and ballpoint pens replacing traditional writing methods. The document goes on to quote sayings about leadership, including how the first follower of a lone visionary can enable positive change, and how true leadership inspires others to learn and achieve more.

1. SJC Technology-in-Education Conference Monday & Tuesday May 16-17, 2011 Image courtesy of Robert Napolitano

2. There has always been fear of change in schools. Take the year 1929. The following quote appeared in The Rural American Teacher:

3. “Students today depend upon store bought ink. They don’t know how to make their own. When they run out of ink they will be unable to write words or ciphers until their next trip to the settlement. This is a sad commentary on modern education.”

4. Or, this one from Federal Teacher in 1950: “Ball point pens will be the ruin of education in our country. Students use these devices and then throw them away. The American virtues of thrift and frugality are being discarded. Business and banks will never allow such expensive luxuries.”

5. There is a saying in the Japanese corporate world: “The nail that stands up is hammered down.” This does not apply here.

6. “Followers making immediate and positive change.” “Being a first follower is an under-appreciated form of leadership.” -Derek Sivers

7. “When you find a lone nut doing something great, have the guts to be the first person to stand up and join in.” -Derek Sivers

8. “Beware and make sure you are following a crazy person doing great things, and not just a crazy person!” -From swiftgoose in YouTube comments

9. “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” -John Quincy Adams