My cousin Kevin, vice-principal and educator extraordinaire, has been asking the following question during interviews at his school. What is the most important quality of an effective teacher? His favorite answer is "reflective." I like it as well. A reflective teacher should never lose their effectiveness because they'll constantly be asking the right questions to that "better way." Our conversation about this particular teacher quality and my recent summer reads inspired me to venture into the new year with four reflective questions on my radar.
Why?
I can't help but think of the unexamined wallpaper that Donalyn Miller challenges teachers to think about in The Book Whisperer. No matter where the practice originated, whether I was taught that way, a mentor teacher suggested it, it came from across the hall, or it's the way I've always done it, I must ask "Why?" If the answer doesn't align with what's best for the children, then the wallpaper's coming down.
What if?
This question hasn't been part of my reflective repertoire before, but I love the possibilities it offers for students and for teachers. It challenges me to think outside of my comfort zone and perceived limitations. What if (fill in the blank)?
What's best for kids?
It's really the bottom line, isn't it? It's why we all do what we do day in and day out. Todd Nesloney and Adam Welcome remind us in Kids Deserve It! that "Schools don't exist so adults can have jobs. Schools exist for students." It seems like the most obvious statement ever, but if I truly believe it, then my daily practice had better prove so.
What is best for this kid?
This question obviously takes the previous one to the next level. I must remember that every child deserves to have this question answered on their behalf. There's no giving up on anyone.
There's such a varied number of questions we teachers could be asking ourselves. Whether I've listed your favorites or not isn't necessarily the point. The point is be effective by being reflective. Our kids deserve our best, and we must continually seek it. What will you be asking yourself this year?
Couldn't agree more! And interestingly I find that the longer I teach the more reflective I become.
ReplyDeleteBarb, I feel the same way!
DeleteI like to ask or reflect on whether what I'm doing is cute or meaningful. I'm okay when it's both, but I hope to use the little time I have with my learners to challenge, direct and inspire thinking and questioning beyond the important and necessary skills taught to my young first graders!
ReplyDeleteJenny
Jenny, that's a great question too. Our time is definitely limited. We had better use it wisely.
DeleteAs I'm struggling through the first full week of school, just happy to make it through the day, I'm glad to read this post and remind myself what kind of teacher I want to be.
ReplyDeleteSara, I want to be that teacher too. Our reflections will help us get there.
DeleteIt's particularly difficult when you are a reflective teacher and you work for leadership that rejects that process. Why are you questioning the purpose-just do it. *sigh* I love the way you get me thinking! :)
ReplyDeleteMiss Trayers, I typically enjoy the phrase "just do it" but not so much when it comes to our little people. I know you'll do what's best for them regardless. :)
DeleteHi Tammy
ReplyDeleteI just attended the Global Leadership Summit and this was the points of one of the speakers.
Anyway, I just wanted to tell you I just finished "Kids Deserve It." Thank you for leading me to it. Now I'm on to "The Innovator's Mindset". Kids Deserve It was awesome. So good. It inspired me to start a Twitter account to hook up with other educators and learn more. I tweeted something and Dave Burgess retweeted it!!!! I was so excited! I felt like I just met a celebrity. I've also implemented a reading idea, which led to 17 parents coming in to my classroom to read. Anyway, thanks again. You are my go to Gal for good ideas. Keep it up!
Ann
Ann, you have officially arrived when Dave Burgess retweets you! :) So cool. I'm glad you enjoyed Kids Deserve It. I hope you feel the same about The Innovator's Mindset. Thank you for coming by often to share your successes!
DeleteYou did it again! You really get my brain going. I will keep this in my head (maybe even print it) because I agree with you. If I am not reflecting and changing, then I need to find a new profession. Thanks you!
ReplyDeleteEm, yes we should always be coachable and pushing ourselves. I know that's who you are.
DeleteI like your questions that you are mulling through this year. Thank you for reminding us to consider if what we are doing is what will be best for our students and their learning.
ReplyDeleteLori, sometimes it's overwhelming to juggle it all but I really want to challenge myself to question, question, question.
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