Then I Wouldn't Be Me (59)

I could have gone to mindful schools, where students refrained from bullying and every teacher was engaged and friendly. I could have had friends. I could have NOT been born with Dyslexia and struggled in school, until I entered high school. I could have been an optimistic, outgoing, ordinary child. But, if any of these things were true, I wouldn't be me. I am me, not in spite of these things, but because of these things.

I could have chosen to succumb to my fate of having a learning disability. I could have fought back against the bullies. I could have tried to be the 'teacher's pet.' I could have acted like my peers: read popular books, played popular games. I could have grown up in one school- yet I attended 5 different elementary schools. I could have had to change high schools, yet I attended the same for all four years. If any of this had been different, I wouldn't be me.

I am me because of my set backs. I am me because of my triumphs. My childhood was relatively happy, outside of school. A normal nuclear family. Loving parents, grand parents and sibling. I had what I needed, I did not go without. I was blessed. This is a characteristic of my youth that shaped me a lot. As did my in school life: both tumultuous and depressing. But- together they gave my life substance. Without that I would not be me.

I have a bit of anxiety, yet I cope well with setbacks. I doubt myself, over judge myself- yet I appreciate my quirks and oddities and, in fact amplify them, to accentuate my uniqueness. I love my individuality. I may be misunderstood at times, but I stay true to myself. If I stopped doing that, I wouldn't be me.

And me...is pretty cool.

Classroom Curiosity and Creativity- A Trim Tab Mentality (57)

Creative Current

Creativity is only going to show up, if you show up every day looking for it. It finds you, only if you are open to receiving it. It’s a huge ocean of ingenuity, discovery and imagination out there. Each circling and flowing in the current. Creativity sinks and floats. It's fickle and if it feels you don't care, or are ambivalent- it just might pass you by. 

You may be making a wide turn towards it, but if the trim tab isn't functional, you may lose it in the wave. Trim tab- a smaller surface on a ships rudder, allowing it to turn, helps the vehicle to counteract hydro- or aerodynamic forces and stabilizes the boat. We all have trim tabs. They are our compass, our sense of direction, when we are overwhelmed, they are the remedy to our doubts and fears- they are by design our sense of self.

Trim Tab

Sharp turns are difficult when we are adjusting the direction of a barge, our large vessel of self-consciousness and motivation and apprehension. We carry with us all of these emotions- each shaping our decisions and attitude. We are each, social, emotional, personal transport ships- moving around the vast sea of curiosity, hope and growth. We pull into port at times, we traverse the open ocean at others- but we are always carrying a load of information and feelings we pick up along the way.

That's why we need to show up, looking for creativity, so we can alter course quickly, when we feel its approach. We also have to maintain our trim tabs; they are the device we use to maintain our course. Curiosity and creativity go hand in hand. Rudder’s and trim tabs work together. There has to be a synergy. This is when we are comfortable and open to new experiences. We know we can endure any storm, because we know our barge is heavy, weighted and sea worthy.

Adjustment Allowance

How do we get our students to enter the water- trust the construction of their vessel? Practice. Lots of storms. Throw some lightning and few tsunamis in there for good measure. Make sure their barge hits the high seas, bounces around, feels the turbulence. If we don’t push them beyond their comfort zone- they will sink at the first sign of agitation.

Here are a five disturbances, I use in my classroom, to entice students to take a risk. To steer into the unknown:

•         I give them verbal directions only, generally three steps and NOT let them write them down. I say them three times, emphasizing each step with a visual image (I say picture a funnel, or a box). Then I have them execute the plan without speaking. This builds their competitiveness, listening skills and problem-solving skills.
•         I use Ziplocs to lure them in. Clear bags full of odd objects. Things they are unfamiliar with, mixed with a few familiar ones- for example: Lego bricks, mini-koosh, a ball bearing, an aglet, zip tie, a strange key, and a film container. I tell them build me a model of a cell or a body system- each part has to represent an organ or organelle. If they don’t know what they are they struggle with the purpose and have to debate which organ it represents.   
•         After a discussion, I simple say- you have 2 minutes, with a partner, find a way without words to show me you understand the concept. Or, you have 2 minutes, using poetry/song, explain the concept to your table partners.
•         Before we start a new topic, or avenue of investigation I like to ask them a question that lures them to the opposite of what we are doing. I have them start with the wrong approach. For example, if we wanted to demonstrate the order of the organs in the digestive system- I would make them go backwards first. Then discuss why this wouldn’t work? Not just that eww! How disgusting, but mechanically and chemically why it couldn’t happen.
•         One of the best ways to get students to adjust to their heavy barge direction, to steer at a new course, trim tab at the ready, is to let them think for themselves. I say "Take it upon yourself, to demonstrate your understanding”- I let them teach themselves science- is that what I am not meant to do? I think so. So I present a problem- ask a simple question and let them roll with it.

You would be surprised how much more effort they put into something they designed, they thought of- its personal and that my friend is creativity and curiosity incarnate. We as educators just need to trust. We can see very quickly if they are off track or distracted- a little turbulence (I add a new component or dimension to the assignment) will get them right back to center.

Some days it’s straight-forward research or a bit of notes and some application. Some days its Jenga, Puppet Shows and Play-doh creations. We use the makerspace or we podcast. No matter the agenda- it needs to be based on student input. Their navigational tools are what allow our classroom ocean, to benefit from the plethora of barges, as they cross the great divide. It’s all about curiosity, waiting for the turbulence. It’s all about the trim tab, the minds control, over where the rudder steers.

When students capsize, they will flip back over quickly, if we just step back for a moment and let them. If they are taking on water, and rely on their classmates to start bailing, they will work together to halt the intake of water. Creativity and problem-solving require showing up and looking for it- understanding that both need our full attention. For when we give it what it needs, it will return the favor.

The Places That Scare Us (55)

It is with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye. 
-Antoine De Saint-Exupery

We are afraid of the unknown. The invisible, like a cold chill, makes us feel frightened because we can't see it coming. It spawns distraction and doubt. But if we live our lives with an expectation that we must be constantly learning, trying new things, investigating the world around us- we will feel more at ease with uncertainty. "Live life like an experiment" -Trungpa Rinpoche. If we accept the hypothesis of viability, maybe our variables will lessen.

"In the beginners mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few."
-Zen Master Suzuki Roshi

The beginner's mind seems like an insult to some, "What do you mean I am a beginner? Are you saying I am ignorant?" I have heard people say. It is not at all. To me it means a curious mind. A magical and spontaneous mind. An open-minded spirit. If we stay inquisitive and investigative we stay within the world of experimentation and discovery. I try to learn something new every day. To see things differently. To approach a problem from a new angle. This way my mind stays a beginners mind always.

Minds may become specialists somethings and generalists at others, but if we keep our minds in the realm of beginner- we can always see the world as something static and fluid. Ever changing. This is a place that scares many of us. We like to have things visible and at times predictable.

Yet, learning is never predictable. Life is never predictable. If it is, we need to see it more as an experiment. If we do, we can hypothesize, gather evidence, problem-solve- and ultimately, continue to see the world as a giant laboratory. A huge, flexible workshop. Then it will become our playground- and this is less scary isn't it?

Monday Morning, Reflection (53)

Cold air whooshes like a slap in the face, it surrounds you, as you open the exterior door. It sounds like a vault as it is finally exposed to the elements. Like on TV when they open a safe that has been locked for decades. The audible snap of the seal, whispering “What’s inside?” as it slowly releases the staleness of isolation. 

The anticipation speaks in a dull hum, felt to the core. As you step inside, hallway becomes scenery, each step a different landscape: Jungle, prairie, mountains, sandy beach. Crisp coolness mixes with a warm breeze- expectation meets imagination. Possibility meets parameter. Individuality meets consistency. There is a stillness, waiting to become noise. A serenity in need of agitation, disturbance, action. You can feel the rumble as it nears.

Desks empty, tables organized. Board advertising procedures. Enticing curiosity. This space has become your second home. You spend more time here than you do sleeping. It is comfortable. Yet, it is missing something, an energy, a din of giggles and contentment. There is a swirl of optimism glistening in the light. Sparkles of prospect, promise and passion gently adding a layer to the classroom climate. 

The daily weather forecast: clear skies. The warmth ignites a potency of happiness. A little bit of moxie and pizzazz in your step. You are prepared. You are at the starting line, you have stretched and prepared for this- the opening bell is just about to ring.

For the remaining moments, you hum your theme song. A soft cadence becomes a boisterous rendition. The room absorbs your stamina and fortitude. It becomes an animated space: dynamic, spirited and above all else, activated. It becomes more than a classroom, it becomes an ecosystem: Jungle, prairie, mountains, sandy beach. It takes on the spirit of overlapping vegetation, tall grasses, peaks and valleys, ebbs and tides. 

As the voices approach, the wave reaches shore, the inhabitants merge into view- you see the entirety of potential. You no longer just see individuals on printed rosters, but communities. You may stand near the center of this beautiful landscape, but you are nothing without the residents. The citizenry of the classroom.

They enter, buzzing, chirping, cackling and chattering. They carry with them the vibrancy and tempo of real life. They send a vibration into every corner of the school. It is like a pulse, beating, charging the once silent hallways with electricity. This is the day they solidify your image of what your classroom culture will be for the year. They will determine the mindfulness. The kindness. The positivity. 

When you emanate joy and gratitude, they will return the energy with trust and respect. This is the moment many voices merge into a common language- expectations and possibilities. This is the day you choose to let many opinions remain vines, that connect the flora of imagination and creativity. 

This is the year that uniformity once thought necessary, dissipates and a common vision becomes clear. This is the space of all invested, the community of every participant, the home of every learner as they grow and expand into one giant jungle, prairie, mountain, sandy beach.

Monday morning reflection is much like returning after a long break- it can be exciting if we let the anticipation grab us.

An Honor, Humbled, Recognition (51)

Tonight I received an award. PTA Lifetime Member Award. I was told I had won a few weeks ago, tonight there was a Founder's Day Banquet, for all of the recipients. There are just under 5,600 teachers in Katy and tonight 50 were honored with this award. Very humbling.

Our PTA president also gave us beautiful bouquets and the district a gold pin. A wonderful dinner, great conversation and an award. What a fantastic night. My first ever award as a teacher. So I am truly honored and humbled and thankful. Plus our PTA president I found out tonight is one of my students parents.

Very cool. A night I will remember. Remember to keep doing what I am doing what I love. Even though I feel a lot of the time, I am under the radar, I go unnoticed. I found out tonight- I was wrong.

What was it for?

It is a big honor to receive this award.  It is given to people who have demonstrated commitment to the ideals of PTA.  "Making every child's potential a reality".  A committee chooses parents and staff each year to give the award.  Your HUGE commitment to Quiz Bowl as well as Nat Geo Bee, Science Bowl and your fabulous teaching of science has not gone unnoticed.

Thank you for all you do!

Allison

Melissa's Extraordinary Playlist (49)

I watched a show a few weeks back called Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist. It is about a girl named Zoey, who while having an MRI, has music accidentally downloaded into her brain. A giant Spotify list, in her mind, due to an Earthquake. A far-fetched and silly premise yes, but a really interesting show. 

Turns out in certain situations, people around her break out into song about what they are feeling. Some are a cappella performances, others huge Broadway style numbers. Then after the song, everything goes back to normal and none is the wiser. No one remembers. Except Zoey. She usually gains a lot of insight from the song.

It just came back after all these weeks with the second episode. I am looking forward to watching it. The idea got me thinking- what if I had a playlist I could access in my mind. Then I thought, I already do. I can also click on Spotify on my phone or computer and listen anytime I want (in my free time that is). But what if I could glean insight from my students, if they broke out into song, told me what they were struggling with. It doesn't happen all the time to Zoey and well, I wouldn't want to hear music all the time either. But when needed it would be pretty insightful.

If we could concentrate and listen, get needed updates through song- that would be kinda cool. Just think if we could hear songs, in certain situations. Helping us as educators to remember to stop, think and listen. Songs that students wouldn't remember they sang, but we would gain such insight. Nothing too personal, just what we need to know to help them through struggles, academically, socially and emotionally, and in return they could hear some positive songs from us, when we are willing to send them a song or two. Life would indeed be a much more mindful place.

For Instance: Here are just three I can think of off the top of my head. But, if I took some time - the list would be endless.

Home- Phillip Phillips- 

Hold on, to me as we go
As we roll down this unfamiliar road
And although this wave is stringing us along
Just know you're not alone
'Cause I'm going to make this place your home

Settle down, it'll all be clear
Don't pay no mind to the demons
They fill you with fear
The trouble it might drag you down
If you get lost, you can always be found

Just know you're not alone
'Cause I'm going to make this place your home

Settle down, it'll all be clear
Don't…

Better Day's- Goo Goo Dolls- 

And you asked me what I want this year
And I try to make this kind and clear
Just a chance that maybe we'll find better days
'Cause I don't need boxes wrapped in strings
And designer love and empty things
Just a chance that maybe we'll find better days

So take these words and sing out loud
'Cause everyone is forgiven now
'Cause tonight's the night the world begins again

I need some place simple where we could live
And something only you can give
And that's faith and trust and peace while we're alive
And the one poor child who saved this world
And there's ten million more who probably could
If we all just stopped and said a prayer for them

So take these words and sing out loud
'Cause everyone is forgiven now
'Cause tonight's the…

and to let girls know they are not weak and should be strong and loud

I'm Just a Girl- No Doubt

Take this pink ribbon off my eyes
I'm exposed
And it's no big surprise
Don't you think I know
Exactly where I stand
This world is forcing me
To hold your hand
'Cause I'm just a girl, little ol' me
Well don't let me out of your sight
Oh, I'm just a girl, all pretty and petite
So don't let me have any rights
Oh, I've had it up to here!

The moment that I step outside
So many reasons
For me to run and hide
I can't do the little things
I hold so dear
'Cause it's all those little things
That I fear

'Cause I'm just a girl
I'd rather not be
'Cause they won't let me drive
Late at night
Oh I'm just a girl
Guess I'm some kind of freak
'Cause they all sit and stare
With their eyes

Oh I'm just a girl
Take a good look at me
Just your typical prototype
Oh, I've had it up to here!

Oh, am I making myself clear?

I'm just a girl
I'm just a girl in the world
That's all that you'll let me be!

Oh I'm just a girl, living in captivity
Your rule of thumb

Make me worry some
Oh I'm just a girl, what's my destiny?
What I've succumbed to
Is making me numb
Oh I'm just a girl, my apologies
What I've become is so burdensome
Oh I'm just a girl, lucky me
Twiddle-dum there's no comparison

Oh, I've had it up to!
Oh, I've had it up to!!
Oh, I've had it up to here

Fail, Fail Again, Fail Better (47)

Failing is an art. An art form. A genre of art. It can be messy, like a Pollock, splattered and chaotic. It can be huge brush strokes, noticeable and flamboyant like Van Gogh, or it can be personal and subtle like a Rembrant. A portrait of ourselves and our incessant need to improve ourselves. It rarely is said that failure is sought out. Yet, it is. For we know, if we do not stumble, tumble and catch ourselves we will never be able to harness and climb our tallest of goals.

We have to get there. As I said in my yesterday's post, what got us here, wont get us there. We have to continue to take those wild opportunities, the ones we know we won't quite shine at. We will complete them, to zero fanfare, but when we come out the other end- we will have found a part of ourselves we thought we had lost. The childhood version of the universe, we were told to cage as adults.

As adults we see bubbles and our eyes glisten just a bit. We see an ice cream cone and remember the shore, sand between our toes, the sound of the waves. We feel our childhood everywhere, yet they are glimpses. These echo's are there not to depress us, but to inspire us to be the image of ourselves, we clearly had in our heads, when we walked that summer day on the beach. We underestimate ourselves, all the time. Even the most confident of individuals, has doubts. They are just really good at masking them.

Failure is an option for us, even though it wasn't for the amazing Houston scientists and mathematicians of NASA, when Apollo 13 needed to land safely. It is a benefit that we fail, because some of the most innovative and evolutionary failures have led to the most innovative and evolutionary advances of human kind. Those individuals saw their failures, and laughed in the face of failure...ha, ha, ha.

Fail, fail again, fail better. Seek the moments when you know that you will struggle and scramble and strive. I write a lot about not fitting in- I don't. But, I also write a lot about overcoming my isolation, I keep trying to do better, see things in a different way. I get lonely. But, I am also very comfortable being alone. When I come home my family is around me and I am surrounded by love. 

It is a balance. I do not let exclusion become avoidance. But, I also do not let myself nudge into places where I do not feel connected. I am alright, in a quiet, darkened room innovating alone. I sit with others, I listen, I plan, I socialize- but ultimately, I am in my head. I have questioned that for awhile- being in my head more than I am being in the company of others. 

I have soul searched, meditated and prayed. I have tried to see others as isolating me. But in reality, it is me, isolating myself. I am stepping out a bit more, walking over to someone else and talking to them. Trying to create connections. There are a few improvements, it will take awhile. But, I have also come to the realization- I am alright, traveling frequently, to my head space.

A balance- family, loud, chaotic, messy like a Pollock. Bright, colorful brush strokes of a Van Gogh- innovating and sharing my ideas. My personal, journey- subtle, consistent, calculated shapes and portraits of a Rembrant. Together they are a landscape of me.

My failures are art. They are an art form. They are every genre of art- all of them and together they create the most amazing of museums. I can wander and observe all of the beautiful masterpieces of my lifetime. Even with a little Edvard Munch added in, my life has been pretty cool. What is a museum, a life, failure and success, without a few screams?

The Daily Grind- A Deluge Determined (45)

I heard a comedian say "You don't need a 5 hour energy drink, you just need to lie down for awhile." We are sucked in by the social media buzz of- how to be productive, how fast to move, how to be bigger, faster, better.

We can't just settle our mind, calm our spirit, take a breath- because if we do, we are lagging behind the curve. So we literally, face the daily grind- caffeine- double espresso, latte, tall black coffee.  We figuratively, face the daily grind- by running an endless treadmill, just trying to survive.

About two months ago- I was so tired, emotionally and physically, I cried myself to sleep for a week. I was constantly on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and living vicariously through people I do not know and most likely never will. Their classrooms were perfect, they wrote books, they were celebrated by their colleagues. 

They were travelling and having wonderful, unblemished vacations. They dressed exquisitely, they ate healthy, impeccable diets- even though they didn't need to because they were practically Utopian in every way. In fact after a few months of unplugging- I took a peek today, they still reign supreme. 

I still feel like a hamster in a cage, on an endless cycle of uphill and free fall. But, I have a little more understanding now. An empathetic mindset. A realistic appreciation for their grace and style. There are simply, amazing people out there. They are fantastic hosts of an outlandish, heavenly realm. I, a resident of a reasonable, pragmatic one.

I thought long and hard about it- I do not want to live in the fast-paced, mayhem of popularity and fame. I prefer the quiet, commonsensical one I call home. I have done a lot of soul searching. I have reflected. I have meditated. I have become steadfast in my growth all the while staying grounded in my dreams. My dreams are my personal social media.

Today is Valentine's Day- I hesitated to get on any social platform. I am not a Hallmark Holiday person. Nor do I want to see another bright red heart, not today. I love my husband 365 days a year. I love my children 365 days a year. I do not need a day where I feel required to love them more. 

I watched today as students carried around giant stuffed animals, huge bouquets and giant boxes of chocolate- they were badges of honor- to 12 and 13 year old's. They say, "I matter." While many students, defeated and visibly deflated, tried to keep their heads down and avoid the giggles and screams of the recipients. When did it become such an isolating event- this day of love?

Social media has created such a wave of we -have to fit in, have to make sure I do what I need to make my other-half happy. It has created a day of as much sadness and loneliness, as it has temporary elation. The daily grind, often helps me keep my head to the 'grindstone' - I almost forgot it was Valentine's Day. Until I saw the deluge of red and pink, coming up the hallway.

Today I made sure to make contact with all of my students who felt left out and disappointed. I looked them in the eye and said "Thank you for coming today- I am so happy to see you." We joked about the size of stuffed animals and bouquets, the sheer amount of candy that was exchanged. I tried to make them laugh. I hope a smile and hello, made a difference.

Blue Sky Revelation- A Journey with the Clouds (43)

Bathed in sweet reason
The glow is eye catching 
Light peaks through a collision of cloud
A visual hum
Passing through an otherwise silent illumination 

Ruffles have ridges
Clouds do too
They crease and furrow
For me and you

The merge of yellow and gray
Wolves of the sky
They silently howl of nights arrival
and
To the sun goodbye

Ominous it congregates 
Mustering the strength to rendezvous
It is undefeated against
A sunny sky

The moon among the pink influence
Eyes wide open
Stares through a vastness
Unblinking at the glare of yesterday

Stretchy cotton candy
Refusing to melt within the warmth of the sky
Sugary, whispy and whimsical
It sweetens the morning

The nectar of the sky
Tells a story of music and memory
Catching shapes and mimicking 
Feathers of its inhabitants 

Sky Creatures
Soar through the open
Merging with the subtle
They often go unnoticed

Above us only sky
Cotton soft and inviting
Pillow top
Comfort

Sharp meets fluffy
Shadow aligns with contrast
Curvature and angle
Layer 

Above 
Below
Either
It unfolds

X marks the spot
Lying at the intersection
of
White and letter
as if
A journey awaits

A New Way To Test Correct (42)

Today we tried a new way to go over a test. Rather than just go over the answers and explain where students went wrong we did a four step, individual, team, review. This had every student reflect over the wording of the questions, analyse the questions and determine if they felt they got them right or wrong.

I asked them, independently to read over their test booklet, and beside each question put a + if they got the question correct, if they were certain. To put a check mark if they struggled with the question, but felt like they got it correct. Finally if they felt they had gotten it wrong then they put a -.

After they did this, quietly for about 3 minutes. Each table of 2-3, went through the test together and compared answers. They had to make sure everyone, at the table agreed, on the answer, if not they had to debate and then decide, which they felt was right and why.

Then we went over the answers as a class and they corrected any they got wrong.

After a discussion of why each question, that was missed by many, was correct- I had them do test corrections. They used their notes to explain, why the answer was correct.

Then we looked at the TEKs- Texas Essential Knowledge standards. The test questions had the TEK numbers by each question, but the actual description of the TEK was missing. I put the TEKs on the white board and they labeled them accordingly and counted up how many of each TEK was represented, on the test.

Last, students circled any question they felt needed re-wording for clarity AND they looked over their class journals/notes, to determine what, if any, topics we discussed in class, were NOT on the test. Then we discussed why. Students figured out very quickly, the importance of the wording and expectations of the TEKs and why some information covered in class, was not included on the test.

A QR code was put up on the board for students to answer a few reflection questions over the process, this way I can adjust for future tests.

This process took longer, but I think especially for my PreAP and ACA classes, this was definitely a reteach and it helped students prepare for the retake. But also, it was a good way for them to understand- what they are learning, how it is being taught and what they will be tested on, on future tests.

Subordinate Yourself to a Greater Mission (40)

An act of courage can bolster the resolve of others. But an act of oblation can halt it. Bravery is accepting the challenge, in the face of doubt. But also understanding and preparing for battle. Fortifying the battle field, yet leaving a path of retreat.

Diving in head first, without thinking about the consequences is not what I am talking about. We often do this though. We overestimate our endurance. Our passion is expansive, our purpose narrowed and defined, but our time might just prevent us, from accomplishing every aspect of our multifaceted mission.

A calling, per se, does not mean don't screen your calls. It means find the opportunities that not only matter most to you, but that can make the biggest difference. The ones that fulfill you but also balance with the rest of your life. Filter out the noise and hone in on the consistency, the frequency that resonates. As educators we do this a lot. But we also try to hear all the pulsations and this disperses our resolve.

We ask ourselves what we can do that will make the most impact for our students? What can we do to help every child feel welcome and safe? But, do we also ask ourselves- What do I need to focus on, what do I need to let go? A mission is an objective, a pursuit and we have to sometimes make sacrifices, in order to complete it. We find purpose, set goals and begin our quest- yet we rarely let the side ventures go, in order to commit fully to our mission. 

We want to do it all. Be active on social media, write, mentor and coach extra-curricular clubs and competitions. We want to go to conferences and teach at professional developments days. We want to plan fabulous lessons- every single one exciting, engaging and purposeful. We want to get to know every one of our students, and form an extraordinary bond with them and their parents. We literally want to be a superhero. Yet, even a superhero, could not manage all of this- especially with a family.

Dedication and adherence can often lead to collateral damage. We neglect other parts of our lives. Balance is a myth. Nothing is ever truly balanced, at least not for long. There is constant give and take. Moving a gold coin from the left scale to the right. A constant leveling out. We are eager, passionate educators- but we are also a part of a loving, nurturing family. 

We have to ask for help sometimes. But, we also need to take stock, of our commitments and choose to subordinate, to our mission. As educators, we all have a mission, our students. PERIOD. Our colleagues, parents everything else is a close second. Our students are our mission. But if we are stretched thin, and we begin to satellite ourselves out in every which direction- how can they truly stay our mission?

Subordinate yourself to a greater mission and find time to be a celebrity. Subordinate yourself to a greater mission- be connected with family and friends. We have two missions and both revolve around relationships. If we make those the priority: parent, sibling, spouse, friend- teacher, mentor- the rest can align. But, if we are searching for something else, we need to choose to be that instead. No sacrifice- only subordination to what we really want, need and love.

A Cultural Revolution- 8 Strategies to Create a Positive Classroom Culture (38)

Culture is an umbrella term which encompasses the social behavior and norms found in human societies, as well as the knowledge, beliefs, arts, laws, customs, capabilities and habits of the individuals in these groups. Does this not sound like a classroom society, an educational atmosphere?

Classroom culture involves creating an environment where students feel safe and free to be involved. It's a space where everyone should feel accepted and included in everything. Students should be comfortable with sharing how they feel, and teachers should be willing to take in every ounce of feedback, in order to, help improve learning. Educators need to be more listeners than speakers.

Here are a few ways I make sure my classroom community is student-led:

Set rules together – We have designed a positive, mindful classroom where students are free to be themselves, this does not mean there aren’t any ground rules and routines. Students should feel safe and respected, and a framework around that helps them do so. Mindful, positive speak is our norm. I encourage them to think for themselves, and I ask them what kind of rules there should be. These rules are based around our mindfulness strategies.

Transform problems into teachable moments – Too many times we see problems as a setback of some sort. Instead, we need to see them as teachable moments. As something to build upon. I take a positive spin and get students interested in taking the steps to solve it. We work as a class to talk things through, so we can make sure the classroom is a safe place for everyone. This not only strengthens problem-solving skills, but also communicative and collaborative skills that are so vital in the classroom.

Change the setup – The way the classroom is arranged will have a massive impact on the way students work. The more individual spaces the better. In my room that means standing desks. We also have lots of tables where students can get into groups. Flexible seating is just half the set up. I provide space for students to add their work to the wall and help decorate accordingly. I have a graffiti wall (chalk board) where students draw comics, add mindfulness quotes and have a space to express themselves.

Chat with each student individually – Find the time to have a casual chat with your students individually to see how they’re doing. I have 1- minute check-ins every week with every student. More if they are struggling with something in particular. I also use 1- minute check-ins as an opportunity to get some feedback from students about lessons and the classroom culture.

Give out “jobs” – Giving students responsibilities in the classroom not only makes them part of the day-to-day running of the classroom, but it generally helps boost self-esteem knowing they have been trusted with a specific task. This can be handing out papers, being the greeter at the door, or makerspace organizer. My students volunteer for these tasks, partly due to the candy after a few weeks, but I think it makes them feel good to have the responsibility for helping our classroom run smoothly.

Create a Clear Communication Line with Parents -A classroom culture can’t sustain itself without the involvement of parents. They should be included as much as possible via phone calls, emails, positive post cards and invitations to participate in field trips and family nights. Parents are true allies- but it is a relationship like any other and needs to be cultivated, nurtured and strengthened by communication and respect.

Integrate Social and Emotional Learning Programs- Mindfulness is my classroom SEL strategy. We have lessons every week, warm-ups and tickets-out-the-door daily. Students write on our positivity wall among many other things to keep our classroom positive, optimistic and happy. (see this post for more information Practical Rebellion: https://practicalrebellion.blogspot.com/2020/02/ten-easy-ways-to-create-mindful.html?spref=tw )

Ask different questions- It is interesting when we pause, respond not react and listen intently, the questions we can ask, get more meaningful and purposeful. When we are present and focused, we can see problem-areas and address them quickly. When we listen with purpose, we see things we might otherwise miss. Then we can ask the right questions to solve them. For instance:

• How can I help?
• What do you need from me?
• Is there a different sentence we could use to express our self?
• What exactly made you feel the way you do now? Can I make a difference for you in how you handle it?

If we ask them how we can help rather than how they feel, it puts them at ease and this in turn creates a community, of listeners and action takers. A classroom culture, like that of a society level culture is diverse, multi-cultural, and a vast community -with personalities and needs and opinions. It is fluid and expansive and it needs attention and the trust of its inhabitants to make it work. 

A culture is only as strong as its citizens. Our classroom citizens have everything to do with the culture. We can’t make them be anything that they are not. We can only create a space where they can be themselves. We are just the cultivator- they are the energy that keeps it sustainable.

I Always Feel Empowered After I Read (36)

There is a face-off of time and attention, I live through it every day. I have a list of things to accomplish and a list of things I want to do. I want to find a warm-comfy corner and make a hot cup of tea and just read. My escape is reading and writing. Yet, most of my day is requirements and regiments. Finishing my to-do-list first.

I can write anywhere, I am a fiend. I write in my journal or type on a nearby computer. Doesn't matter where I am, even a sticky note, I write down ideas a lot. Write poems, write stories, write anything really. I write down my inspirations and aspirations, all the time and these phrases or words lead to blog posts- they lead to journal entries.

"My Guitar Gently Weeps," the famous Beatles song was written by George Harrison. His action was to open a random book and choose the first line he read. ________ gently weeps. He plugged in the guitar part and voila, an iconic song. He did that a lot, choose random lines and ideas he glimpsed in books and programs. I just found this out and it made me smile. I do the same thing.

I hear or read a phrase and from it- an idea- and finally words flow into a post. I usually hear or read something- jot it down in my inspiration journal and choose to not return to it until days later. I like things to percolate. I choose to forget them for a bit- they always find me again. Usually combining with a different idea. It's how I find my flow. For some people writing comes naturally- it does for me.

You have to build your determination. It doesn't always continue with an exponential ascent. I plateau every now and again. I jump into reading for awhile and this brings on a new insight. A new rhythm. I try to alternate daily between reading and writing. I love fiction books- but these days I am focusing on the non-fiction books of Pink, Gladwell and others. The books about inspiration and real life determination and ingenuity. I am connecting to that aspect of life these days. Growing through the action of others.

I appreciate the anecdotes. I enjoy learning about what motivates and drives people to behave they way they do. How our minds work. How our personalities and misconceptions steer us, shape us and above all else bond us to other people. Psychology and sociology- not just in education but in every aspect of our lives. How we miss the lies, accept what we don't understand and try to believe the best in people. Our humanity.

Reading and writing empower me. They connect me to other people by allowing me to see the differences and uniqueness among us. I feel another blog post approaching....

Moments (34)

We all have peaks and valleys. Moments where we are thrilled, like a roller coaster, arms up, screaming at the top of our lungs. While some moments, are the anticipation, the build, the climb to the peak. Others the lull, the after glow or even the sad, trauma moments, we all must experience. These moments sometimes happen to us or around us. Sometimes though we create them.

Peaks need to be based on elevating ourselves, seeing the world through excited eyes- something wonderfully memorable. These become peaks. They should be insightful, interesting, and again memorable. Finding a great book and nestling under a tree to delve into it- insightful and memorable. Peaks are peaks because we see them as such. We believe in them.

Often these peaks are centered around life changes or progressions: weddings, birthday's, graduations. They are milestones. We remember them fondly. Like most of us adults, remember our adolescence fondly. We remember our friends, prom, marching band and everything else that made high school memorable. Yet, of course, others find this same time period a valley. Perspective and experience dictate our moments, our memories.

When we feel a sense of pride- finishing a marathon, getting a book published, winning an award- these are some of the greatest peaks. They connect us- we feel a part of a community. We run together as a community, we write and get published with an editor and publisher, we accept an award in front of our colleagues and peers. Its exhilarating.

Moments can be big, like fireworks- colorful, explosive, filling the sky with optimism. That is why they blast the sky on some of our greatest holiday's. But, moments can be intimate, quiet and simple. Reading a book aloud to your child before bed. A walk on the beach, hand in hand with your spouse. These moments might not feel like peaks- but they are definitely inclines.

If we get ourselves into a relentless loop of routines, goal setting without leveling up, and just plowing through day after day, without setting time aside for the moments- we will grind down the peaks. We will be left with a desolate, barren, region of just getting by. Balance is impossible- we will always struggle to get things done- we have to let something go, to accomplish something else. Unbalance is alright. As long as we continue to climb the peaks. Accept the valley's, but carry a shovel, so we can always fill in the ditches, until we see the brightness, of the next new moment.

Dial 7 to Get an Outside Line- Routine to Get Recompense (32)

Relentless routines create a sense of comfortability- yes. They generate compliance- yes. If they are strict enough, they lead us to 'reasonability' rather than recompense. They might seem practical, purposeful even predictable- thus structured and organized, but if they are relentless, they lose their mission. If routines are steadfast, yet flexible, they create a cantilever effect. Secure on one edge- strong enough to hold the other sides in place. So tight in fact, they can actually have some room to hang over the precipice a bit.

This overhang produces awe inspiring ideas. Ideas are easy. Execution is hard. It is an idea world we live in after all. The next big thing is always right around the corner. Trends rise and fall like ancient empires- yet persistent, strong-willed, tenacious designs are everywhere. They are ascending the walls of the fortresses, built to keep power, within the hands of the few. They are clambering at the archway ready to break down the gates of hardship. They outweigh procrastination, overcome drag, overpower the inertia of meekness ten fold. If they didn't, we would be stuck back in the time of Neanderthals. We progress because we dream, we imagine, we build.

There are limitations- placed on us by ourselves as much as an outside force. Dial 7 to get an outside line. We can breach the barrier yet we are required to connect to the ether first. The swirl of imagination and creativity. But, once we do- the sky is not the limit- above sky is space and that, well...is literally endless as far as we know. Routine gets us to atmosphere and troposphere. Conventional might present the ship, but brain power, science and ingenuity builds it. Unremarkable does not outweigh inventiveness, astuteness and plain ol' gumption.

We need a little routine to get to the wisdom. A writer, writes. Athletes play, practice, exercise and compete. We set goals, push ourselves to continue to grow. Once we leave that routine we can easily fall short. So custom leads to cunning. A treadmill may be stationary- but it bears results. It is what compels resourcefulness. Thus we choose to dial 7 and get an outside line. It is the bridge between deduction and dexterity. If we follow the rules, we will be able to see how we can modify and adapt to them, to use them for our benefit.

Routine to recompense. Structure, scaffolding and the boards that build the platform, the cantilever, we perch ourselves on, is only secure because we understand the importance of the physics. We believe in the mathematics and engineering, that allow us to frame our habits. We understand the importance of construction and stability, so we can shape our tendency to eyeball and quickly survey, rather than scrutinize at first glance. When we step out onto our stanchion, our personal crosspiece- we have to know we will be guarded while we are there.

Relentless routine diminishes possibility because it narrows the playing field. But purposeful standards help bolster our position so we can pay attention to what's important- the view.