Today's field trip was a big success. The children had the chance to see a wonderful play, and their behavior and respect were terrific. Many, many parents, teaching assistants, and teachers helped out. All in all it was a big success.
The challenge was the logistics of the trip--there was one troubling circumstance after another. I figured out how to make the paperwork easier yesterday. The next step is to figure out how to make the return to school smoother. What I expected upon return did not happen which was challenging. I'll have to figure out what to do in that regard with future trips.
Through the challenge I've learned some new truths this week. Truths that are very challenging to learn, but nevertheless, truths I have to live with and stay clear of as much as possible. Basically the bottom line is that learning is often the last item on agendas in schools--what we can do to really boost student learning and intellect is sometimes not given the attention it deserves. So often so many other things get in the way. Work conditions are also often a challenge. I think this may be particularly true in elementary schools for the sole reason that most of the teachers are women--I think that often women's needs and rights are not regarded with respect.
That said, it's time to move forward with new knowledge and new resolve. Onward.
