A Carnival of Adventure or a Fortress of Solitude?

The image of a fortress often includes a large castle or wooden encampment atop a hill overlooking a city. A thick, guarded wall surrounding it. A barrier of protection, security its main purpose. But, generally it is constructed to keep others out. Not a prison to isolate, but a sanctuary to shelter. Unfortunately this citadel, for many students and teachers, becomes a stronghold, a fortification that hinders rather than defends. It puts us in a place where we begin to fear what is beyond the gates, deeming it the enemy, when in fact it is reinforcements. Teachers have this same insulation causing us to be hesitant to lay down the draw bridge and let others pass the great moat we have put in place around us. But in this profession we need to not be a fortress of solitude but a village of like-minded individuals. The townspeople who each have a unique attribute to provide for the town: blacksmith, carpenter, or shopkeeper. Each lending their knowledge in order for the town to fight off the bandits and maintain itself.

To get a student to step outside the gates we slowly encourage their participation through engaging activities and worthwhile, relevant adventures. As if the travelling circus, and roaming theater has rolled up to the center of town. The music and excited atmosphere luring the citizens outdoors. But, how do we get the angry mob or disgruntled villagers to join the party? Some teachers will eagerly anticipate the arrival upon hearing the distant din of carnival noise, while others just knowing a little bit of upheaval is near will lock up their doors tight. These teachers, with boarded up windows, will never open their doors willingly. Even with the most enticing aroma of candy and treats, singing and dancing of local actors and jesters won't get them to venture out. The more we cheer and laugh, playing and enjoying ourselves, the more they resent us. But we as free spirits refuse to go back inside, preferring to get comfortable with the evil eyes peering at us from behind the curtains.

Each day is not a carnival or festival. However, each day needs to be relevant and worthwhile. engagement is not universal. The outlaws of boredom often trickle into town. This is inevitable. But rather then gear up for a fight, let the sheriff stroll on past. Just his mere presence will keep the calm sometimes. Let main street bustle with the sights and sounds of learning. when the Wells Fargo wagon pulls in, let the mystery of its contents trickle through, enticing passersby to take notice. A crowd will form and then before you know it, conversation, anticipation, community. Engagement draws in students but can teachers use this strategy as well. Place little morsels in the minds of our students, create exciting situations, our wanted signs should read: Wanted: Learners, Keepers of Self-Knowledge, Growth Mindset. Refuse to be in the dark shadows of a deserted town. Never let your path become a ghost town. Invite, entice and others will join you because you will truly be the best show in town.