Anchor (noun)—figurative—a person or thing that provides stability or confidence in an otherwise uncertain situation 
At a recent AIW kickoff I facilitated, the inestimable value of anchors to both expanding school teams and to me as their coach was clearly evident. As I circulated about the room during guided conversations and scoring discussions, the differences between the conversations of those teams with anchor members and those without were stark. Among other things, anchor members:
- provided a positive climate through their enthusiasm for and belief in the AIW framework
- shared their expertise while still allowing team members to construct their own knowledge
- admitted their own fears when first beginning the AIW journey
- displayed the kind of empathy and understanding that only prior experience provides
- modeled the scoring process
- effectively answered questions that they, undoubtedly, had once asked
In addition, anchor members helped me by bringing out important points or asking key questions during large group discussion. They understood their fellow team members, having worked alongside them in the past, and were much better than I was at reading their body language and facial expressions.
For me, the presence and involvement of the anchors underscored why they are included as one of the essential load-bearing components. As the definition above states, they provide the stability needed by new team members beginning the uncertain AIW journey; and they inspire confidence through their attitude, words, and actions.
Reflecting on the day, I came to the realization that I had not given the anchors the credit they deserved. I resolved to promptly correct my mistake by writing them thank-you notes. In addition, I will publicly honor them at their first site visit, giving them the recognition they are due.
What are some other ways in which we might show respect and appreciation for our anchors and the important role they play?