*insert fireworks, resolutions, and champagne* In the education world, our year runs from August to June (May for some lucky folk in the South), so now is the time of year when we start thinking about the goals that we have for ourselves, our students, and our staff. We are wondering about how we will make changes based on last year’s experience and what we want to do again because it had such a great impact. We are wondering about our students and their families. We are wondering about the new staff members in the building or the old staff members if we’re new. We are wondering if there will be enough time to get our room set up the way we want before students arrive while balancing professional development sessions and meetings.
I used to wonder about all of those things, but as I enter my second year out of the classroom I’m wondering about how can I make sure that the work I do with educators is purposeful, uplifting, and restorative. I didn’t just pick those words because they helped me to spell my favorite color. I didn’t pick them at all, in fact. They came to me in a dream and I knew that they were meant to be the guiding force behind the work that I do. I want my work with teachers to leave an impression upon them that changes the way they think about themselves and the students, teachers, families, and people that they work with. I don’t take the privilege to have an impact on people lightly and that’s my hope for educators.
For everyone working in education that will read this, I challenge you this school year to not only wonder about traditional things we often wonder about, but to unpack the impact you are having on the space around you. Analyze the type of learner you are and how that influences how you teach. Think about the cultural baggage you carry with you everyday and how that comes across in your outwardly expressions. Wonder about the professional and personal goals you have set for yourself and make actionable plans to reach your goals. This is what I do with educators and I know it can change the way that they think and act in ways that have a transformative impact. Try it and see.
Thanks for stoping by to get a dash of color!