It doesn't seem possible, but August is right around the corner. That means the new school year is also rapidly approaching. As we have the past few years we will have a day in August for all staff that includes some time together, a shared lunch, and the remainder of the day for building and department teams. Since we have not invited a guest speaker to inspire us I will have an opportunity to share at the beginning of the day.
What do school employees want to hear from the superintendent at this time? What do they not want to hear? What could I say that would demonstrate appreciation and yet also challenge us as we continue our 21st Century learning journey?
I would appreciate any thoughts you might have as I begin to reflect on this important opportunity.
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5 comments:
I know I can't speak for other staff, but I appreciate that there will not be a guest speaker - somehow I feel it adds a bit of authenticity that the district won't be paying an outsider to come in and tell us what we need to do.
That said, I know that teachers hear a lot about Classroom 10 - our building has had our share of discussions on the topic. Perhaps something useful would be to demonstrate/model a Classroom 10 lesson (perhaps on giving presentations?) and possibly the lesson planning, then break up into subject areas and formulate a lesson or two with guidance from T&L. I think that may give us a more practical understanding of the concepts involved. Then, if that was followed by department time, we would have an opportunity to help each other with some lesson ideas implementing the skills from the morning session. For younger teachers like myself, it would be very helpful to see examples of using content and technology as vehicles for 21st century skills.
I'd like to hear some discussion on the importance of both the classified staff and the certificated staff working together as a team. It seems that often there is a large chasm between these two groups and some positive encouragement for each to work with the other would help to make a unified and seamless front in helping the students and benefiting the staff. More can be accomplished for the good of all when this attitude and approach is harmonious and there is no condescension.
Some time devoted to the current budget situation would be appreciated. It would be good to hear explained what can be expected with these cuts. It would also be good for all to know what will and will not be accomplished this year because of this so that unfulfilled expectations are met with understanding.
Finally, the current bond issue. Hearing what will be done if this passes and what will not if it doesn't would settle many questions in the minds of the staff. Explanations of current and future projects on buildings and district-related issues explained from "the top" would give everyone facts instead of hearsay.
Thanks for the opportunity to share some ideas! I look forward to August 27th!
I think a reflection on where we have been, perhaps start when you were teaching Mike, and work your way through what has come and gone and what has been constant. Look at how we've grown in just one year and share our district goals for the upcoming year. I think is would be a great time to share and refresh our district vision. I hope to leave that day feeling excited and energized. After the afternoon session last year, I felt like I was in trouble for not doing my chores :)
"Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark. Professionals built the Titanic."
Last spring a teacher sent some students to the library to locate and contact people online who might help mentor them toward realizing a dream (a big idea or desire…a very cool concept). When one student shared his dream to play professional football, I thought he might try to connect with former Tahoma graduate Omare Lowe. Another said she wanted to be a veterinarian, and what first came to mind was the friendly staff at Wilderness Vet in Maple Valley where I take my beloved dogs. Another brought up interests in the military and medicine and I recalled Caitlyn Fisher, a former student who came back and shared with one of my classes her very compelling experiences with an Army medevac unit in Iraq. And for the girl who wanted to join the Peace Corps, I wondered if retired teacher Liz Mathewson might be available. You get the idea. While the learning community really knows no bounds with endless online networks, there’s a lot of incredible local talent and resources with valuable information and stories to share.
So how does this relate to your question? What I’d like to hear this fall is not only about the possibilities (and the importance) of engaging learners with skills and tools to prepare them for our global society and a future where the only given is that it will include change and uncertainty, but that the core of our work with students continues to center on our district outcomes and of the value of our local community. I appreciate hearing about the marvel within. I’d love to hear of staff who have partnered with each other or with community members (as close or as far as that may extend) and the impact on kids…or perhaps from community members themselves who are supporting the schools. I like when we share what might serve as models and inspiration to all…those stories that build upon our sense of community.
A number of years back, the district (not sure who initiated) devoted time to developing a pool of “community treasures”... people and places of significance to Tahoma. I’d love to see a rebirth of this in the digital age…perhaps a wiki database of community members (including those with ties to the community who may be living elsewhere) who would agree to serve as a resource to students on a variety of subjects. (Perhaps there’s already something started that supports the senior project?...certainly the city council and chamber of commerce members could be approached.)
As to what I don’t want to hear? I really don’t care to hear about WASL scores or “competitive edge” (unless it involves budgets...ha, ha) or anything about public schools being obsolete if they don’t change, change, change ... I want inspiration about possibilities that will engage students and that supports staff and honors those working in and out of the classroom for our dedication and passion to students and lifelong learning as we strive toward expected and desired goals for the year.
Thanks for the opportunity to share :)
My suggestion would be to focus on the success in Tahoma. One thing that was really great last year was the Heroes Night, it really focused on the positive things that teachers and staff have done for students. Chris Everett liked the idea so much that she had each 5th grader at the end of last year write an essay about their Shadow Lake Hero that she shared some at the 5th grade graduation and will share more this August. While that concept may sound cheesy...kind of warm and fuzzy it is what motivates people to work with our kids and in the real teaching world we want to all be an inspiration to our students day in and day out.
I also feel that while I enjoyed last year, it was a lot to take in, it felt overwhelming. I know that teachers want to come away from a meeting feeling like they can accomplish something, make a difference. If is too overwhelming it won't move forward the progress of moving towards 21st century teaching and learning. I look forward to the 27th and as you plan for this, I would think back to the time when you were in the classroom, dig back into that time and think about what it would be that you would want to hear if you were the audience, what would motivate you to do something different in your classroom every day with every children. I know that it will be great Mike.
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