This week I experienced my first official day back to school. Like many other teachers around the nation, I spent the first hours of that day in a meeting. I don't think I thought once about my classroom or lengthy to-do list while sitting there though. I actually sat through the morning with a smile on my face. I attribute that marvel to the inspiring new leadership at my building.
My principal began the morning with a Kid President video. It's the one where he asks, "What are you teaching the world?" Immediately after, my principal asked us to consider this question. "What do you want to teach your students this year?" We gathered into small groups and listed our ideas on charts that were then displayed around the room. I don't recall seeing any standards on those charts. Every item was focused on the heart and character of the learner.
What do I want to teach my students this year?
You are full of greatness.
I believe in you.
You can change the world.
You matter.
It's smart and cool to ask questions.
Persevere.
You can't live without books.
Your writing is a powerful tool.
Math is your world.
What do you want to teach your students this year?
Wow Tammy! What a great beginning of the year activity and what a great list for your kiddos. You will instill in them everything on that list too!
ReplyDeleteMiss Trayers, I sure hope so. I'll need to return to this list often to make sure.
DeleteWe did something similar at one of our meetings. We had to think of a teacher that we loved from when we were in school and then in small groups chart what made these teachers great. Standards didn't show up on ours either. :)
ReplyDeleteLori
Conversations in Literacy
Lori, I like that idea too. It's great when a whole school can come to the same conclusion about what's the most important. It's a great way to start the year.
DeleteOh my goodness! I love this. I feel like it embodies so much that we have talked about this summer together. And for your whole school to experience this together. Thank you for your continued inspiration.
ReplyDeleteEm, it was a good way to start the year, very inspiring.
DeleteHi Tammy! My first day was similar--except district wide since we are so small. The question was what does a graduate from our school need in order to be successful. Our charts were filled with character traits and life skills. Eye-opening! It demands that we as teachers get creative in how we teach content--which is necessary. How can we incorporate more life skills into our content lessons? We must ask and answer that question…and DO it!
ReplyDeleteAs always, love your Saturday Sayings! Thanks!
Crystal
Crystal, I love that so many of us are starting off the year with the same kind of focus, even though we're from different parts of the country. That's pretty cool! And even though we have a lot to learn, we know what's most important for our kids. :)
DeleteThank you Diary of Rhina.
ReplyDelete