Three Scenic Spots Off the Beaten Path in Italy

Dr. Nancy Coogan, previously the superintendent of the Tukwila School District, holds a master’s degree from City University in Bellevue, Washington, with a focus on special education and the importance of collaborative and team teaching. In her leisure time, Dr. Nancy Coogan enjoys international travel, having previously visited Italy. While many are aware of the larger attractions Italy has to offer, such as the Colosseum in Rome or the museums of Florence, here are three lesser-known spots that can offer tastes of a more rustic Italian life. 

1. Lecce. Located in the southern region of Puglia, this city is known to many as the 'Florence of the South,' filled with ornate architecture and many art museums. The most popular museum focuses on paper mache crafts, for which the city is known. Nearby, visitors can enjoy white-sand beaches that are much less crowded than those on the famed Amalfi coast. 

2. Civita di Bagnoregio. This medieval village sits atop a cliff in the center of Italy, offering one of the most spectacular views in the nation. Called the 'dying city' by many locals, it has begun to erode over the centuries, but it still offers a one-of-a-kind experience. With only ten residents, it is the perfect place to retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. 

3. Siena. Easily recognizable by its brick buildings dating back to medieval times, Siena sits in the scenic region of Tuscany and dates back to the 13th century. The city square, Piazza del Campo, is a UNESCO world heritage site, and visitors can enjoy some of the best food in the country, with local dishes including wild boar, grilled meats, and incredible wine.

Characteristics of High Reliability Organizations

In her tenure as superintendent of the Tukwila, Washington school system, Dr. Nancy Coogan led several transformations within the district. Dr. Nancy Coogan has also studied the nature of high-reliability organizations, which build on her research interest in mindfulness.

High-reliability organizations, such as aircraft carriers, deal with significant consequences of failure by following five principles:

- Focus on failure. Everyone watches for new and possibly dangerous problems that could arise. They do not let down their guard in the absence of errors and accidents but remain alert for new risks. Near accidents do not indicate safety but point to a need for examining procedures.

- Disinclination to simplify. Personnel appreciate the complexity of the work and do not settle for simple explanations. While understanding the benefits of standardization, they do not underestimate the complications of teamwork and relationships.

- Situational awareness. Participants search out overall concepts of operations. They look at their part in the whole picture and the effect of their actions on other areas of the organization.

- Deference to expertise. Members appreciate the skills and perspective of persons, regardless of their location in a hierarchy. In an emergency, senior members might not possess the greatest knowledge of the situation. Rather, everyone involved has a chance to voice safety concerns.

- Dedication to resilience. Since systemic failures are unpredictable, participants practice responses to new kinds of challenges. They act before problems cause harm and work to reduce the severity of malfunctions.