Update for Aug 31-Sept 4
 |
| Photo Credit: WikiCommons |
"How are you going to top last year?"
I didn't know it 12 months ago, but these two quotes have a lot to do with each other. The first one I've heard and read about over the past couple of years. The second one came from a parent I ran into over the summer. I had a response for the parent, but it took an amazing first year experience and the opportunity for me to work with excellent educators, parents, and students for me to have a response.
Last year when I started my new journey with Alton Darby Elementary, I committed to focusing on very few things such as relationships, listening, and putting students first. I believe that being intentional about what I focused on helped me evolve my focus to empowering other stakeholders to make decisions. Relationships, empowerment, and student-centered learning were what I hoped to grow. While the work I do with these three concepts will never be finished, I am proud of the progress we have made so far.
So, how did I respond to the second quote? The one from the parent?
"Wow. Thanks! I'm flattered that you said that, but now I wonder if I should be concerned with the pressure to have another great year! You know what? I actually don't feel that pressure the way I thought I would. I've realized that it's not up to me to top last year. It's actually the work that we all will do together that will determine the year we have. We have a great team of teachers and I am also looking forward to working more with parents to help us continue to redefine what the elementary learning experience should be for kids."
As we start another amazing school year, I am still committed to growing relationships, empowering others, and focusing on what's best for kids. I believe in the work we do for kids each day, I believe in the power of the team, and I can't wait to see where we go to next!
Have a great week!
Articles Worth Reading
"Hopes for the Future" by George Couros
"What a Student Learned From a Short Experiment in Self-Directed Learning" by Jenny Brundin
The best resource is only as good as Ts knowledge of reading, writing & content & ability to adapt resource to Ss needs & interests. #edchat
— Regie Routman (@regieroutman) August 20, 2015
"The Many, Many Problems With "Follow Your Passions" by William MacAskillVideo Worth Watching
Upcoming Dates
Mon, Aug 31 -- PTO Planning Meeting, 6:00pm
Tues, Sept 1 -- Building Improvement Team meeting
Wed, Sept 2 -- Staff Meeting, 8am; Focus on Writing Mantras and I-Time
Wed, Sept 2 -- Fire drill (more details in email)
Thur, Sept 3 -- Admin Meeting (Herb); L. McNaughton building visit PM
Fri, Sept 4 -- FIELD DAY!; BAC meeting if any agenda items submitted by Weds.
Mon, Sept 7 -- Labor Day, No School
Tues, Sept 8 -- Team Connection Time w/ Herb; Let me know if you or your team would like to meet!; Mumkin Orders due
Mon, Sept 14 -- PTO General Meeting, 6:30pm
Wed, Sept 16 -- Parent EdCamp!, 5:30-7pm
Mon, Sept 21 -- Safety Training Day, No Students
Thur, Sept 24 -- Picture Day!
