The Domino Effect

The Domino Effect.
 In layman’s terms, it means that one small action can set off a chain reaction,  like a line of dominoes falling one after another.

Let’s break it down with an example:

If a teacher feels overwhelmed and unsupported, burnout may follow → which impacts student learning → which contributes to lower test scores → which puts pressure on leadership → which creates stress for the entire school community.

And it doesn’t stop there.

From the parent’s perspective:
 A drop in student performance leads to frustration and helplessness at home. Parents may not know how to advocate for their child or may become disengaged entirely,  adding to their stress and disconnect from the school system.

From the student’s perspective:
 Lack of support in the classroom may feel like the teacher doesn’t care, even if the opposite is true. That disconnect can spiral into behavioral issues, academic apathy, and a pattern that follows them from grade to grade. And even if they do land in a more supportive class later, the damage may already be deep, forcing the next teacher to choose between catching one student up or keeping the rest of the class on track.

All of this... from one initial push.

That’s the power of the domino effect. But here’s the truth: it works both ways.

Just one small act of intentional leadership:  a kind word, a pause, a checked-in teacher, a restructured PD, a listening ear can start a ripple of restoration.

We don’t always need to “go big or go home.” Sometimes it’s one small thing that changes everything.