End of the road.

Today was a day of cold winds and rain that seemed to fit my mood since this was the final day that I would be behind the wheel of Bus #79.After wonderful years being involved with student transportation I am hanging up the keys and relinquishing the steering wheel and as far as the emotions are concerned, it is easier said than done. As this chapter came to a close so many memories were going through my mind as each student departed from the bus. Not that I wouldn't see them again for surely our paths would cross inside the school, but I felt like I was losing something as I knew I would probably not see them in this environment again.

I have traveled many miles during my tenure as a school bus driver and am blessed to have been given the opportunity to share and learn through the experience. I have seen an amazing world across the dashboard and through the windshield of a Hinsdale Central School bus. Some memories have not been fond. We have witnessed accidents, people driving through the red lights, unhappy motorists who have been inconvenienced by the disruption of their commute, and aggressive drivers who have put lives in jeopardy. We have also witnessed cherished moments such as beautiful sunrises, amazing wildlife, and even the dangerous wintry roads have a placid form of beauty in them. No matter the view, the day, or the conditions though, there was always Laura and her smile. Today Laura provided both a remembrance of what will be missed and a reminder of how to live.

I first began to pick up Laura as she entered kindergarten three years ago. Unlike many young students about to begin their new journey with fear and trepidation, Laura would board and disembark the bus quite differently. When boarding she would reach the top of the stepwell and look right at me and smile. Upon leaving the bus she would stop in the driveway and turn to smile and wave. It did not matter the time of year or weather conditions, nor did it matter if her seat was taken or if we were in a spare bus, Laura would always begin and end the day the same way, with a smile.


As I sat behind the wheel and watched her wave and smile good-bye I couldn’t help but think of how different the world would be if everyone were to practice such a simple grace in their daily lives. I was challenged by the fact that we often think we are good, but are we nice? Be nice to others. Share a smile with someone today, not because we ought to, but because you want to.

Through Students Ears

During our district open house last evening some former students who had graduated in June came by for a visit and to see how things were going. I was flattered by the fact that they took time to seek me out and say hello. Little did I know that after three short months apart they would return and teach me a valuable lesson.

One of these students had brought in a project he had been working for the past two months and he wanted me to see it. Using Legos he had begun to construct a scale model replica of the Titanic and had brought in the front portion of this project to share his passion, and show me his progress. As he excitedly explained what he was doing and how he had overcome some challenges in construction I couldn’t help but stand in awe as he explained this undertaking. Without diagrams, blueprints, instructions or anything of the like, he had put together an amazing masterpiece from nothing more than a picture and thousands of small building blocks.

I questioned him about certain aspects of his task and then began to point out how and why this project amazed me. Keep in mind that before me was student who had difficulty with standardized testing, was frustrated by traditional instruction methods, and exemplified annoyance as grades he received were not a reflection of his effort. With these thoughts in mind I stated to him how much I wish there had been a Regents Exam that would have reflected how intelligent and capable he was as a learner. I explained that he possessed such an amazing thought process that few understood and that traditional testing formats could never measure. His parents replied, “We’ve never heard someone talk about him like that before”. And that’s when it struck me. When we talk what do students hear?

I fear I’m not alone in admitting that too often I think about what to say rather than what a student needs to hear. Think for a moment about some of the more common statements that are probably said too often during a school day. Are our words building up or tearing down? Do we criticize or critique, compliment or condemn? In other words, what are students hearing? Standing in front of me was a graduate and his parents who had never heard someone celebrate the diversity of intelligence that he possessed. It took a post-graduation trip to his school for him to hear what he should have been hearing for a long time.

We need to be spending less time thinking about what we want to say, and more time thinking about what students need to hear.

Relationship Reflection

The following commentary is a result of my thinking and reflection about the post “We Need to Talk About This” by Beth Still. As I reflected upon the topic she put forth and began to contemplate both my online relationships, and the relationships I have with those I work with, I came to a couple realizations. These realizations are not directly related to her topic, but are a result of my thoughts regarding the differences between digital and real world relationships.

The first realization is that Social Media Cultivates a Bond amongst those who collaborate and connect with one another. Much like the brotherhood of firefighters, and the camaraderie of those who have participated in military service, people connected through Social Media share an unspoken special kinship one to another. While they may be conducting themselves in different roles they have become connected for a purpose. The outcomes they desire to achieve allow them to share visions, focus and passion with one another. They look out for one another, share with one another, and when one person shares a success everyone feels the joy of it.

The second realization is that Social Media Causes a Benefit. Those who use Social Media and those with personal relationships, such as a colleague, have probably recognized a distinct difference in how they benefit one from another. The colleague who works alongside is more easily driven to be disingenuous. Not because they don’t care, but because of what they care about. Status in the workplace, possible promotions, and reputations with others all can be a driving force that encourages a colleague to look out for their own interests, not the interests of others. People who voluntarily connect through the use of online relationships do so because they want to, not because they have to. The effort that is put forth to connect in a digital world is put forth willingly. Therefore, the communication tends to be more sincere and genuine because of the desired outcomes. They participate in dialogue and discussion to grow from each other and learn with each other, not caring about who gets the credit, but knowing that everyone involved will benefit in some way.

There are many other differing aspects of an online relationship and real life relationship, but these two realizations were the first to come to mind. Regardless of what people may see as advantages and disadvantages of either form of relationship the fact remains that technology continues to change relationships in many ways, and will continue to do so as time goes on.

Project 49

The Hinsdale Central School Sr. class started the 2010-2011 school year questioning school spirit, participation, and what they felt was a negative reputation forming around many classes. They purposed that they would work to change as many of these things as they could, and wanted to leave behind something tangible that would encourage students who followed them to take Pride in who they were, and where they came from. The class brainstormed ideas and Project 49 was born.

Students decided they wanted to paint a mural of the school in Room #49. This is the room that is dedicated to Study Halls throughout the day and is frequently visited by all members of the student body. The desire was to keep it a secret and reveal the mural during an assembly that would focus on having pride about yourself and your school. At the completion of the painting the Sr. class inscribed their names in bricks that make up the school, laying the foundation for the classes that would come behind.

Day 1 -




Day 2 -




Day 3-



Day 4 -

As Project 49 gained momentum it turned into a project that extended beyond just the current Sr. class painting a mural. The assembly enabled the current seniors to take turns reflecting about their school career as they shared "Proud Moments" about academic, athletic and community involvement. These moments were opportunities or them to share about something that made them proud to be part of the Hinsdale family. After these Proud Moments Sr. class member Troy Hillman challenged the students to be proud of where they come from and put forth their best in whatever they do in life. He told then that in order to make a change they first need to be the change.

A band was brought in to perform at the assembly. It consisted of three members of the 2010 graduating class and a current senior. They performed "Chain of Pride", a song written by the Civics/Government class that tells the story of the challenges faced by an incoming student and how he was encouraged to always do his best and help those who come behind.

As I begin to walk these halls for the first time in my life, I feel scared and out of place it just didn't seem right.

Then a Senior took my arm and looked me in the eyes, He told me not to be afraid and gave me some advice.

Reach out to those around you and forget what others think, If you try to stand alone all you is sink

Let me share my father's words to me when I was in your shoes, "Others will always see your best when you take Pride in what you do"

I told him I was grateful for those words he spoke to me, When I said I felt I owed him, he just answered quielty

You don't owe me anything I've been there too, Someone once helped me out the way I'm helping you. You relly wanna pay me back? Here's what you can do, dont let the Chain of Pride end with you.

Everything soon became easy I guess I had nothing to fear, No matter where I stop to look Somone was always near,

I wathced so many leave this place they left their mark behind, As this happened year to year these thoughts came to mind,

You don't owe me anything I've been there too, Someone once helped me out the way I'm helping you. You relly wanna pay me back? Here's what you can do, dont let the Chain of Pride end with you.

As I walk across this stage dresseed in my cap and gown, Been thinking bout the past few years ready to leave this town,

Saying goodbye to all my friends Won'dring what to pass along, Bobcat Pride comes to my mind and the lyrics in this song.

As the band performed the song the following slide show of the painting project was played on the big screen revealing Project 49 to all those in attendance.

The assembly was also the time that the additional aspects of this project were shared. Room #49 not only has a mural, but would also be receiving additional updates on a yearly basis. A Chain of Pride will be painted with a new link being added every June. This will be a time when the outgoing Sr.'s and the incoming Sr.'s (current Jr.'s) will together add a link to chain and the new Sr. class will inscribe their names pledging to not the let the chain end with them.

What started with some simple questions and desire, turned into an event that created excitement and energy throughout the entire school. Project 49 will hopefully leave a legacy that will be remembered for years by those who come behind...

Slowing Down for a Change

Abraham Lincoln was quoted as saying "While good things come to those who wait, it's only what's been left behind by those who hustle." While I admire and respect all that the 16th president of the United States stood for and accomplished, I feel that we often inappropriately apply such sayings to specific instances in our everyday lives.



Our society has become so focused on instant solutions and immediate response that we fail to see how Patience truly is a virtue, and how necessary it is to slow down at times. We constantly are trying to make things happen now. For example, I can buy instant microwave popcorn, instant oatmeal, instant rice, instant mashed potatoes, and the list goes on and on. We instant message, and have instant updates sent to our phones. Is there any reason we would expect change to also be manifested instantly? But the reality is change does not occur instantaneously. In fact, change is often so slow we never see it happening. The results are evident as seasons change, styles change, and popularity changes. But change has often taken place and we recognize it after the fact.



When dealing with change we often have a major obstacle in our way - impatience. Our inability to wait for things to develop and occur causes us to make hasty decisions and neglect to see the consequences that may arise from those decisions.Whether it be decisions that take place on the national level, for example, RTTP (Race To The Top), or whether we are just trying to change things within our class, district, or community. Why are we so focused on speed and racing to get someplace? I don't know about you, but every time I read about the tortoise and the hare the racing rabbit seems to lose. We attempt to teach the formula of "Slow and steady wins the race", but fail to live it out. The fallout of our speed and quickness also has damaging affects to our demeanor and attitude. We don't see the immediate results we believe we should, and become discouraged, disheartened,and want to give up. If we focus on the reality that not all things in life are instantaneous, change being one of those things, we will be much better off. So take some time to slow down. Stop and smell the roses. Remember that slow and steady does win the race. Keep working for the improvements and change that are necessary and that you want to see. But remember, you'll probably never see the change happen only the results after it does.

Strategies for Juggling Involvement and Life

by Leah MacVie

Today’s students have crammed schedules. They wake up early, shove food in their face, jump in the car, run from class to class, go to band practice followed by soccer practice, get their homework done while eating, and then off to bed. If you think that is stress inducing, imagine their parents, who work full time and juggle schedules for 3 kids.

As a parent, you have to choose your priorities. Here are a few strategies for balancing life and being involved in your child’s schools.

Support your Child

Coming up with a consistent schedule during the week will definitely help students to nail down a routine. Show an interest in not only what your child is attaining in school, but also what they are learning and interested in. When adults keep asking about the grades, students begin to believe that’s all that matters. There is more to school than grades. There are experiences, friendships, open minds, innovative ideas, and current events.

Meet the Teachers

For younger students, contact your child’s teacher a few weeks after the start of the school year to say you want to stop by and introduce yourself. For the older students, you may have this opportunity at an open house.

Stay up to Date


Some teachers will send out newsletters. While you don’t always have the time to comment face to face on these newsletters, you can e-mail questions and comments at any time of day. Also, check the school Web site, and contact the webmaster if you notice it is out of date. If you can, attend school board and PTA meetings, even if for a short amount of time.

Volunteering Time

If you are lucky enough to have a flexible employer that supports families, then it’s definitely a great idea to ask your child’s teacher when an extra pair of hands will be needed and to schedule it in advance. If you don’t have daytime hours to spare, then ask your child’s teacher how you can volunteer in other ways, like baking or assembling handouts.


Juggling involvement and life isn’t easy, but being consistent with these simple strategies will help you to maximize the time you have.

Leah MacVie blogs about educational choices at http://www.leahmacvie.com./ She loves contemplative comments from bloggers like Rob Griffith and appreciates helping faculty that think online learning is an interesting choice.

"Shades" of Influence

Have you ever wondered how much you influence others, particularly students? And I'm not just talking about the students you directly teach. I was caught off guard yesterday in that regard and it had to do with a pair of "Shades". Let me take a moment to explain.

I have the unique privilege and opportunity to not only teach in my district, but also to be a full-time bus driver as well. I have posted about that before and discussed the positive benefits that it provides (The Value of Pupil Transportation). Yesterday however was a day that touched me emotionally, and here's how the story unfolds.

The number one priority as a bus driver is student safety. As the sun begins to get lower and lower on the horizon during the Autumn months I always put on my sunglasses for the afternoon bus run making it easier to view the road and traffic conditions. For the past week there has been a Pre-k student that I transport home in the afternoon who has also been wearing sunglasses. I noticed him wearing them, but did not think anything unusual about it. While exiting the bus his sunglasses shifted and were about to fall off. I made a comment about not wanting to have them fall and break to which he smiled, re-adjusted them, and continued up his driveway to his waiting mother. She took his hand looked at me and said "You know why he has those glasses don't you?" I replied that I did not. Her response was "Because you do!" As she said this the young boy stood by her side looking at me and beaming from ear to ear. Three words that packed so much power I had to stop for a moment to process their significance, "Because you do!"

Never would I have guessed the reason the young boy was wearing the glasses. I spent the time during my commute home to reflect on those three words. I began to realize and recognize just how much influence we have on the lives of students. We shape their lives in so ways without ever thinking about it or realizing it.

I spent the evening reflecting upon the chances we have to both encourage and discourage the students we are around each day. I woke up motivated and inspired to take every opportunity, no matter how small, to make sure that each student I come in contact with will see the positive aspects of my life.

Little eyes are always watching, what do they see in you?

PaperlessPosters EdTech Workshop

I had the wonderful opportunity and privilege to be part of the Lancaster EdTech Conference hosted by Lancaster Middle School. My role as a workshop presenter was to present GlogsterEDU to session attendees. The title of my workshop was PaperlessPosters, and I put together a Wiki to assist in the introduction, interaction, and inspiration of GlogsterEDU.


I first introduced GlogsterEDU and Glogs by showcasing a Glog I had prepared for this event. It was created to provide an example of the functions of Glogs, and to introduce those in attendance to the uses of Glogs as well. They were able to see the different way to use text, graphics, videos, images, and audio in the creation of a Glog.




Those in attendance were also given the opportunity to explore, on their own, the functions of GlogsterEDU. Hands-on assistance and instruction was available as teachers took the time to familiarize themselves with Glogster, and brainstorm ways that they would be able to incorporate Glogs into their instruction.


The participants were also shown various other resources dealing with GlogsterEDU and Glogs. Visiting the Paperless Posters Wiki participants were able to explore more on their own the various aspects of creating a Glog and using GlogsterEDU.

The Conference experience was exciting and enriching for me as presenter and educator. Being able to share my passion for learning and introduce others to methods and tools I use in classroom was truly rewarding. A big thank you to Heidi Chaves and Lancaster Central Schools for affording me this opportunity.

Glogs - 2 Ways

If you are unfamiliar with Glogs let me begin by describing what a Glog is. A Glog is a digital multi-media collage style poster created using GlogsterEDU. A Glog can include audio clips such as music and narration, video clips, digital images, web links, text, and graphics. Glogs can be created for any topic, and to display multiple forms of information. Here is how you can use Glogs in your classroom, 2 ways!

1-Content Presentations: The following Glog was created and presented in my US History classroom. The Glog was to be a simple Glog to introduce students to what a Glog is, and what a Glog can do. It was the lesson material for the day, and provided students with an interactive learning approach to content material surrounding the Constitutional Convention and the Federalist vs. Antifederalist debate over ratification. I was able to put multiple links, images, and information into a single Glog and present the material in a creative format that students enjoyed



This type of content instruction that a Glog provides allows a teacher to take lessons from ordinary to extraordinary with a little creative thought and planning. This is one of the ways that you can create excitement in your classroom by using GlogsterEDU


2-Creative Products: A second way to incorporate Glogs into your class is through student created projects. Below is an example of a student project. The project was to research and present the Economy of of a particular country. Students were to include multiple images, audio components, and links to additional information as they constructed a Glog to depict aspects a countries economy.




Utilizing Glogs in this manner enables the teacher to tap into student creativity and generate student interest. GlogsterEDU has numerous images, graphics,and text components that give students the opportunity to complete assignments while expressing themselves in a creative format. This gives them control over presentation functions and features, while maintaining class consistency through the use of a Glog as a product for learning.


Additional resources for exploring and utilizing
GlogsterEDU -

PaperlessPosters Wiki

ButlerTech Wiki

Sample Glogs to view -

Civil Rights

Food and Nutrition

Magnets

Blogs about Glogs -

Using Glogster in the Classroom by Jonathan Wylie

GlogsterEDU for Teaching and Learning by Kelli Erwin

6 things you should know about GlogsterEDU by Danny Maas


Check out the GlogsterEDU website by clicking below.

Where to Turn?

When facing a difficult situation or adversity one must begin a process of determining what course of action will change the circumstances and remove the hardship. The question I often ask myself is "Where to turn?" . For help, advice, encouragement, or support, we all need some assistance when faced with challenges, particularly in the field of education.

So where can you go to quickly find the aid that will enable you to remain resilient in your efforts to improve and learn? In three simple letters, PLN. Here you can find the help, relief, and encouragement you might desperately need and it is right at your fingertips. Being linked and networked in a Learning Community across the world affords you an opportunity to be exposed to numerous ideas, concepts, and guidance.

More than just a network of friends and colleagues, a PLN can provide the following for you;

A Staff for support - When reinforcement can validate you ideas!

A Compass for direction - When guidance can align your outcomes and objectives!

A Flashlight for illuminating ideas - When your creativity seems nonexistent!

A First Aid Kit for wounds - When opposition attempts to wipe out enthusiasm!

A Map to help get you "There" - When another's experience can route you to success!

I wish I could mention and showcase ALL those who have assisted me in these ways, but time and space will not permit. I can say that my PLN has proved to be the most valuable resource for personal learning, assistance, and motivation, and Twitter is the most valuable tool. From participation in #edchat, to asking advice/opinions, to viewing displays of work, Twitter brings so many together for a common goal - Improvement!

So, to each and everyone of you who have contributed to my improvement and challenged me in my education, for your willingness to collaborate and for all the resources that you have shared, I say Thank You! You are the ones I turn to

30 Seconds....

In my attempt to focus attention on personal improvement I have been accessing a number of resources from the local library that deal with communication and efficient business techniques. I was fortunate to come across an older book (copyright 1986) by Milo Frank entitled "How to Get Your Point Across in 30 Seconds - or less"

The title was intriguing. Immediately I began to think about numerous questions. How long does it take me to make my point? How much time SHOULD it take? 30 seconds, can it be done? Certainly seems feasible since advertising does it all the time, but can you take an advertising strategy and apply that principle to general communication.

I found this book and the approach used by Frank to be delightful. The basic ideas were simple and straightforward. The concept is to focus, specifically on 3 main ideas.

1) Your objective
2) Your audience
3) Your approach

The example that Frank used that made the biggest impact to me was the story of Dorothy in The Wizard of OZ.

Her Objective - Get Home

Her Audience - The Wizard

Her Approach - The Yellow Brick Road

After being introduced to this example in the text, I really understood the main principles Frank was trying to relate.

So while this post has taken longer than 30 seconds to read, and attention doesn't change for the written word, here is the main idea in 30 seconds or less...

There are numerous compelling reasons as to why 30 seconds has such importance and significance. The shortness of time and inability to remain focused are two of the most important. The 30 second message is a tool. It can quickly become a regular way of communication if you simply put forth the effort to think and prepare what you would like to be heard. Know the three basic principles, and allow them to become ingrained into your thinking and you will find yourself preparing 30 second messages all the time.

What Came To Mind

Today I was asked why it took me so long to publish a new blog post. As I responded I thought maybe this would be good time to share that answer with others, and let you see how that question has spurred me to new perspectives on learning. What initially came to mind was Time. I felt that my time was better spent and more valuable when I read more blogs and gain understanding, rather than generically addressing some issue that another has probably already addressed in a more thorough fashion.

I find inspiration in the visions and words of others. The eloquence, and analysis of the blog posts that I read often cause me to feel better served spending my time reading posts, rather than writing them. The ways in which others challenge my thinking is remarkable. I would like to take a moment to share three of the influences and how they shape my thinking.

First, I am Challenged to Change.
George Couros, a principal in Stony Plains Alberta, challenges me to discuss and contemplated learning. His blog, The Principal of Change, reflects creative ideas and commentary that bring about personal reflection about educational strategies and instruction.


Second, I am Inspired to Incorporate. David Truss is a principal of a PreK-9 Foreign Nationals School in Dalian, China. His blog, Pair-a-dimes for your thoughts, inspires me to look beyond the classroom. To initiating contact with parents and those around me in an attempt to promote outcome and achievement. His focus on student challenges and success are the driving force behind my planned outcomes.


Third, I am Compelled to Confront.


Susan Carter Morgan is a PLP Social Networking Strategist. Her blog, scmorgan learning in open spaces, compels me to view education through the 21st Century mindset. Confronting the reality that change is inevitable, and the more open and receptive we are to accept change will enable us to lead rather than follow. I must always create instead of react, and be excited rather than anxious when learning something new.

These were the thoughts that were going through my mind after being questioned. But alas, then a revelation struck...

Reflecting about my blog silence, I was afforded opportunity to pause and consider my motives. This question served as an avenue that provided me with a quality insight regarding networking and communication. I began to think about how I have been influenced by others, and was challenged in my thinking that maybe I influence others too. We all play a part in the collaboration of ideas. Sometimes as the taker, and sometimes as the giver, and sometimes we fill both roles simultaneously.

By thinking in this manner, I am faced with the choice to become less selfish in just my reading and learning, and more challenged in my sharing and distribution of thoughts and ideas. Ultimately it is the sharing that will further increase the knowledge rather than just data acquisition. So I challenge you as well as myself, make an opportunity to share something with someone. You may feel it is insignificant, but to them it may be extremely relevant and needed.

Scholar Club

In an attempt to promote and reward academic excellence and achievement at the High School level I have created the Scholar Club for the social studies students in room #63 at Hinsdale Central School. This program has been created to motivate students to strive for quality in their work, to go beyond the everyday expectations, and to demonstrate the leadership capabilities of someone who cares.

Our format for inductions is as follows, each month the students who meet the required criteria for membership will be inducted into the Scholar Club. In order to become a member students must meet class avg percentage requirements, must have one of the top five grades on a project, must have completed one voluntary community service project, have not been issued a detention, and must have no unexcused absences. If these criteria are met the student will automatically become a Scholar Club member and receive the rewards associated with membership.

Here is what being a member of the Scholar Club provides. First, the student will be showcased in the newsletter with a descriptive narrative describing their academic achievement. Next, the student will be recognized on the website and their project will receive special display format. Students will also have the option of dropping a low grade from their homework or a quiz. Finally, they will be granted special privileges for visiting either their locker or the library, and using the restroom during class time.

I often feel that high achievers are overlooked in a small rural environment and felt that this initiative would benefit those who aspire to achieve more. Due to the fact that I am limited in my authority, I was attempting to provide rewards that would viewed as special privileges from the students.

I am curious to see how this progresses in the coming months, but have already heard a buzz around the hallways.

Learning - Part #2

Collaboration


I often use many of my fathers quotes while teaching, and thought of one of his sayings while putting together this post. Dad used to say "No man is an island". I feel that his sentiment and instructions can be taken alongside a speech given by the character Jack in the now completed LOST series which aired on ABC.

Downloads: Views: 108

The "Live Together Die Alone" comment that sets the premise for the series LOST is easily carried over to PLN and collaboration. How so? In that every person touches another through their life. People do not fully realize the impact that their life has on other individuals, nor the comments and suggestions they may make to others.

If we fully realized this concept could you imagine how much could be accomplished by everyone working together to achieve a common result? Take this thought a step further. Is this not what education is all about? If we as educators are attempting to achieve the same results with our students, then why do we battle over new or different ideas, concepts, and strategies?


I had the wonderful opportunity earlier this month to conduct a workshop in my district. It was the first time in a number of years that I have had a chance to lead and introduce material, concepts, and technology. Our overall theme for this workshop was T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Achieves More). The initial focus was on how even a small number of individuals can impact the learning environment through working together and collaboration for achievement.

This T.E.A.M. concept was an effort to explore and examine the needs of our students, Internet best practices, and individualized instruction methods utilizing technology. I was appreciative of the thoughts, comments, ideas, and input of the wonderful colleagues I am able to work with.

Furthermore, I was thankful many of you took the time to answer the 3 Simple Questions in our GoogleDoc. (Feel free to continue to add more as we will keep it open through September). This real world collaboration demonstrated so much more for the workshop participants through the real time collaboration than I could ever have attempted to explain.

I am learning how effective collaboration can be, particularly when the ideas are shared by the entire team. I am also learning to be patient as the PLN, PLC, & PLT ideas need to be developed to be effective. As stated so well on twitter by Andrew, a.k.a. @crudbasher.

Wisdom in a Tweet! Thanks for the simple but profound statement. It is so true, particularly as I look to focus on collaboration this upcoming school year as a way to increase student achievement. A big thank you to all who have helped me see the power of working together.

Learning - Part #1

Coaching -

I spent a number of years coaching at the varsity level and walked away from the sidelines of the game I love almost three years ago. I was realizing how fast time goes by and the importance of family over work. Little did I realize that I would be called to return to the sidelines and facing an entirely new challenge, youth soccer at the U6 level.



This time however, I would have the opportunity to being coaching a team my son plays on. This would not be the challenge to create a learning opportunity, the challenges would come from the five-year-old perspective of fun and the game.


My new goals would not be to win a Section VI title, but rather to instill a love for the game into the heart of each player. This was more challenging than I could have imagined. My competitive drive pushed me to focus too much on poor performance and was overshadowing the joy they were receiving from being on the field.

Their first GOAL was a groundbreaking event. It was followed by a chorus of cheers, "high fives", group hugs, and more joy than you could imagine.

The learning I received from this experience was immense. I had to learn to focus on small rewards that brought tremendous intrinsic value. I found out that accomplishments and achievement can come in many different ways. My sense of purpose had changed from just coaching in a way that promoted my perception of achievement to coaching in a way that brought brought personal levels of achievement and happiness to those who were participating in the sport.


Thank you RYS for the opportunity to learn new ways to love the game.

GO TIGERS!!!!!

reNEWable sources

Burned Out or Dried Up?

What's the difference?

It took some personal discouragement and a campfire to initiate the following thoughts.

Watching a fire slowly go to ashes I couldn't help but question how many times the phrase "burned out" had been used in the educational field to describe an educator. Not that I know the answer specifically, but needless to say I am sure too many.

I have been questioning some of my own energy levels in recent weeks and began to focus on the energy release taking place while the wood was burning down. In the initial stage the fire was hot and beautiful, but that quickly dispersed with very little to remain at the end. Taking the personal perspective of the wood, I began to question myself. Was I consumed with little left to offer but ashes? I contemplated if there could be a better way to describe and identify my emotional state.

It came to me later while looking for a cleaning tool. I saw an old sponge. It lay crusty and hard on the bottom on the drawer, but quickly regained life once it was applied to water.

It struck me then. I could be the sponge. Not burned out with nothing left to offer, but dried up and in need of a NEW soaking.

We all on one occasion or another have felt dejected, discouraged, and probably down. But in what condition would you place yourself at this juncture? Burned Out? or Dried Up?

The key would appear to be finding a way to become exhilarated again and feel reNEWed.

To prevent further drying one must immerse themselves into a source of reNEWal.

For me it was to begin learning again...