Monday Moanin Thought #90 Focus on Instruction At This Time Of Year

Welcome to another Monday Moanin. Life in education continues to be very  challenging  for all educators in Michigan and across the country.  Teachers working without contracts and  learning to navigate a new evaluation system based on student improvement are a few of the many issues facing them. As result many educators are struggling to stay positive  and motivated during these challenging times. Coupled with that, it  happens to be the week before  the week  of a long holiday break. During this time it is not unusual for students to be distracted by the upcoming break and from the daily challenges of attending school both socially and academically. Our students really need all of us during this time of year. Because of all these factors, I urge educators to focus on their instruction with a laser-like-effort and professionalism this week. Here are a few doable suggestions from fellow teachers and administrators to help our learners.

•  Let your students know that you appreciate them and enjoy them. They need to hear it.
• Conduct a 1 on 1 appointment day/days. While students are working independently or in groups, have a 1 on 1 conversation with as many learners as you can. Let them know you care and ask them what they need to be successful.
• Be positive and keep your glass half full.
• Listen more and talk less.
• Give students more choices and input on classroom learning and assessments.
• Consider an open book or note test.
• Consider giving an assessment in pairs.
• Collaborate with a colleague on best practice.
• Lead from your HEART.

As adults, let’s not get distracted by things out of our control and focus on what makes our profession great. We are there for our learners. None of the things above are difficult, they just take effort and energy.

Lets get to work and make this week a positive one for all. Have a great week and keep finding the good stuff.