As one who is a critical thinker, I can err on the side of looking at the problems more than the positive aspects of any environment. And while I believe we have to take problems seriously and continuously work for better, I also know that having a positive attitude and outlook is the way to go for multiple reasons. As I think of this, I am thinking of the following mantras to lead the school year.
Students and grade-level learning community
My focus this year is wholly focused on the students and grade-level team.
See the promise in the problem
Problems will happen and the focus needs to be on seeing the promise in the problem--what does the problem alert us to, and how does the problem help us to positively change and develop?
Prioritize
Decide which issues truly matter and which do not. For example, our main focus is to teach so issues that compromise the teaching matter while other issues less related to the teaching and learning don't matter as much.
Compromise
Schools are filled with many people who see teaching and learning from many perspectives. We won't always agree, and there will be times when compromise is necessary.
Advocate
It's possible to be a positive advocate for betterment and good service to children. To stay passive in the face of issues where we can do better is not to serve children well, but to positively advocate for what is right and good is to serve children well.
Dedicate
Dedicating good time and routine to the essential work of teaching and learning matters, and with this dedication children are served well.
