As an educator who works with young children each day, my power and purpose lies in the work I do with and for children each day. I have a lot of ability in this area to make a positive difference, and to do that I have to keep my focus centered on those children and the teaching/learning program rather than all the less than positive affects that exist all around education--affects that demean and disrespect teachers taking our time and attention away from our most important area of teaching and learning--the children.
So what can I do in the days ahead to better serve the children--the worthy focus of what I do?
The list is the same old, same old laundry list that I reach for each and every day including the following:
- Students-first learning environment where worthy learning materials and support is easily accessible to the children.
- Engaging, empowering learning experiences that educate students well.
- Encouraging, helpful feedback that energizes and promotes the best that students can do.
- A listening ear that's ready to support children in their times of need and interest.
- Life long learning that keeps the curriculum program up to date as much as possible.
The greatest challenges with respect to this work include these areas that can get in the way of the good work possible:
- The constant barrage of advice, directives, and initiatives that are not well supported in the research, children's interests or needs, or experience.
- The demeaning words and actions that strike teachers daily near and far.
- The little power teachers have to obtain needed materials and supports--we have to fund most of our supplies if we want those supplies in timely, valuable ways
- The limitless potential to serve children well
- Limited energy and time to do all the tasks asked of us daily.
Striking the balance is essential. Striking the balance means you have to avoid the energy-sucks, those efforts, attitudes, and experiences that drain you of the good energy you need to do the work well. You also have to align yourself with the supporters and energizers, the people who help you to gain the good energy and supports that empower your good work. You need a reasonable, doable, positive weekly routine--a routine that directs you in positive ways with optimal energy and a positive attitude. And you need to build a teaching/learning environment that's welcoming and supportive of the goals and work you are reaching for.
Navigating the busyness of school life can be challenging for many reasons, and it's essential that you plot your path and refine as needed so you can do the best work possible, and that work is work directed at what helps your students be the best that they can be in happy, healthy, and confident ways. Onward.
