31 TLN 2005 <p> TLN DIALOGUE:  A NEW MENTAL MODEL OF SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL &quot;Our old mental model -- the common school as the cultural unifier, the first step up to a better life for anyone willing to work hard -- is probably dead,&quot; says Nancy in this important TLN conversation. &quot;I love that model, and don't want to give it up, but I think it's been replaced by an image of the failing school, with its marginally qualified staff, uncaring parents, outdated instructional techniques and low test scores.&quot; What educators must convey to policymakers and the public is &quot;a new mental model of the successful school, the professional teacher, the well-educated child -- one that everyone can embrace.&quot; Cathy adds that teacher leaders who question current school reform policies must offer functional alternatives. &quot;Too often we are seen as 'whiners and complainers' who...are comfortable and too lazy to rise to the challenges and high standards policymakers set for us. Until we prove that we do not mind high standards and challenges, but want ones that we, as experienced professionals, know will benefit our students, I do not think we will be taken seriously as decisionmakers.&quot; </p> <p> Teacher Leaders Network. (2005). Teacher leaders network conversatons: We need a new mental model of the successful school. Retrieved from the Teacher Leaders Network 15 Apr 2008. Link: http://www.teacherleaders.org/old_site/Conversations/mentalmodels.html  </p> <p> &nbsp; </p>