The numbers of articles I see posted on Facebook and in the news about disgruntled teachers is growing. There was a very popular article this summer titled, "The One Reason I Quit Teaching" and this week there has been another one on Facebook called "Why I Can't Teach Anymore." While I understand teachers frustration over the current state of education, I have to admit that these articles drive me crazy.
In Leader in Me, we talk about our Circle of Control or Circle of Influence and our Circle of No Control or Circle of Concern. We need to focus on this more. You see, when we concentrate on our Circle of Influence our Circle of Influence grows and when we spend more time focused on our Circle of Concern our Circle of Influence shrinks.
We can't control standardized testing requirements but we can control how we react. We can write our lawmakers and educate others about the effect these tests can have on our students. We can choose to create calm testing environments where we can help our students to do their personal best and understand that a test doesn't define them. We can create joyful schools where students want to come to school to learn.
We can't control a talkative class or hyperactive student but we can use best practices to allow them to be the most successful they can be. We can teach them what's in their control. We can explicitly teach talk on task or movement activities to engage them the way they learn best.
We can't change family crises or parenting styles. However, we have an opportunity to build relationships that influence students in a positive way and help them believe in themselves. Many educators love the quote, "The kids who need the most love will ask for it in the most unloving ways." Do you believe that and if you do what will you do about it? Most often these children feel unloved, unwanted, not valuable, and hurt. What they need isn't greater control or bigger punishments. They need love, understanding, compassion, and someone to teach them a better way.
Last year, we had a 5th grade student who none of us seemed able to reach, even me. His behaviors pushed people away. This week, Tara sent me a copy of a letter titled, "Someone I respect." This young man wrote a heart felt paper that started with this, "I respect my teacher Mrs. Daraskavich because she has been the most helpful teacher I've ever had" and ended with the following...
"She's been the most understanding teacher I've ever had. So far this is the least stressful year I've ever had. She understands kid's differences. She was nominated teacher of the week. Honestly, I can understand why." Wow!
We can all make a difference in a student's life. We're not necessarily going to be able to do that to every student in our class every year. Don't think though that the extra kind word, attendance at a sporting event or theater performance, lending just the right book, finding them an extra snack, or a positive phone call home doesn't make a difference. Many of our kids have enough people giving up on them. Don't be another one.
Teaching is hard work. We know we're asking a lot to teach rigorous curriculum that develops critical thinkers while building strong relationships. It sucks that teachers don't get paid what they should and that lawmakers have reduced our profession to a job that needs to be advertised on highway billboards. Yet, I still couldn't walk away. I wouldn't tell my own children not to got into teaching. I'm not about to let my frustration kick me out of public education.
We have a pretty awesome school here. That's because we choose to act within our Circle of Influence. "Everyone Learning, Everyone Leading, Together." That's what we do everyday. Devote the majority of your time and energy to changing what is in your Circle of Influence and that positive energy will pay off.
The funds for the Walk-a-thon are dismal. We need to "pump it up!" As of right now, we barely have enough money to buy prizes! Where are our superheroes?
Let's Sharpen the Saw! Trupp Transformational Health will be here Tuesday, November 3 from 8:00-12:00. You just need to complete the consent form and arrive 3-5 minutes early. It will be held in the community room across from Sandy Wise's room. Enjoy!
Are you interested in having a pre student teacher from Madonna? Students must complete 30 clock hours in the classroom (ie. two half days/week for six weeks). Most students will be in your classroom to observe, tutor, and engage in other educational opportunities. There is a critical need for placements. Let one of us know and we will add you to the sign up sheet if interested.
We had our second Pop in with the Principals on Thursday. Lots of things happened outside our circle of control. The Costco guy overslept and was late. The sound system in the cafe wouldn't work. However, we still had 10 parents show up (double from September) and had a great conversation about how to foster a growth mindset in children and how the 7 habits and growth mindset fit together.
Robin sent out an email offering support for i-Ready training and analysis. All of these dates are voluntary. Thanks to Robin for giving up her time and services.
Monday,
11/2 8-8:30 am
Monday,
11/2 11:15-12:00
Monday,
11/2 3:40-4:15
Tuesday,
11/3 9-10 am (work day)
Please sign up for 2 computer lab periods on the 2015-2016 Computer Lab sign out sheet to administer i-Ready reading by November 20th. The Title I team will do makeups on the 23rd and 24th. Thanks Robin, Kathy, and Christine
Learning Walks: A new survey has been sent out for our December 7th Learning Walk. Please complete the survey and consider being a part of this professional learning process.
Calendar for the Week of November 2:
Monday: Kristi at Coolidge for Growth Mindset 8:15
Noon Monitors' Meeting 10:50
OSS Meeting 1:30-4:00
Tuesday: Teacher Work Day
Trupp Massage 8:00-12:00
Wednesday: IST 8:00
QAR Meeting (Sarah) 9:30-11:00
Curriculum Meeting (Sarah) 11:00-12:00
Thursday: Staff Meeting: i-Ready Parent Information 8:00
Picture Retake
Friday: Walk-a-thon 2:00-2:45, Prizes 2:45-3:00
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