When I was a young child growing up in a big family, everyone had their place at the table. Knowing your place eased the transition from play, television, or homework when mom called, "Dinner's ready," soon after my dad returned from a day of work. Once we heard those words, we'd scurry from all directions to find our seat then commence the evening meal ritual.
Knowing your place eases transitions, supports focus, and strengthens an organization's success. Yet, the onset of technology into every aspect of work and life has disrupted the general sense of "place" thus calling for review and revision. We now need to reconsider the teacher's "place" and role by establishing role definitions, communication systems, and a revision process that responds to the quick evolution of ideas, tools and needs.
I desire a renewed and better defined role definition with regard to communication systems, expectations, and a revision process. I want my work to be inline with the work of my colleagues and system as I know that creates strength, yet I also believe that I need a place for my voice too as I'm working in the front line of education and I'm reminded daily of ways we can better teach and serve the children in our community.
Without a focus on role, our efforts become diluted. If my family so long ago spent the first 20 minutes of our evening meal squabbling about who sat in which seat, we would never have had the time for the rich debate, discussion, laughter, and talk that challenged, entertained, and educated us as we shared my mom's wonderful cooking and care.
