The world of education is filled with mixed messages and multiple paths.
Since schools are one of the last collective centers of public share, many initiatives find their way to the school house. Important initiatives such as anti-bullying, healthy relationships, nutritious diets, exercise, social awareness, emotional intelligence, essential skills, the 4 C's (creativity, collaboration, communication, critical thinking skills), STEAM, and more--all worthy learning, all important to a strong foundation for later success.
The challenge is managing the multiple paths, and choreographing a routine to meet the many goals, activities, and standards these initiatives bring while at the same time creating an engaging, motivating, responsive, student-centered program.
I write again and again about this as I'm always looking for that perfect algorithm for teaching nine- and ten-year olds, but since the children bring a variety of experiences, mindsets, values, and readiness to the table, we know there's not a one-size-fits-all equation for educational success, and this fact means that teaching demands artistry as well as science.
Hence, I tweaked the routine, communicated the information to the learning community, and prepped for the week ahead. And, as always I'm always open to your wisdom, ideas, and debate. The journey continues.
