There are so many events in school life that are out of your control as a teacher. This reality can be very frustrating at times, particularly times when you can imagine a better path, process, or potential action. Yet, the reality is that the teacher is one of the "low men" on the education hierarchy--hence you have to accept that fact that there are many events, actions, and outcomes that are out of your control.
So what's one to do?
First, advocate when you can, the best you can. Accept the fact that sometimes no one will listen or respond.
Second, think about what you do have some control over including lesson planning, lesson execution, student response, research, learning, collegial collaboration, and do your best at those activities.
I have a strong vision for schools to become vibrant, transparent, fluid learning communities--the kinds of organizations where choice and voice matter for all including children, parents, family members, community members, educators, and leaders. I want the only things "out of our control" to be those unexpected events--the kind no one can plan for.
As far as the important work of the day, I yearn for lead time, planning, many voices, many choices, research, discussion, debate, process, and care. That happens often, but the idealist in me wants it to happen even more often.
Everything about the true mission of schools is positive--schools are about educating children well. There's nothing to hide when it comes to education--our goals are easily transparent, shared, and open because our goals are about forwarding what's right and good for children. Yes, we're not always going to agree, but our decisions will be better if we all have the chance to think, plan, assess, and decide with lead time, care, and process.
But for now (and perhaps forever), some things are simply "out of your control," and there's not much you can do about it.
