Monday Moanin Thoughts #50 Focus On Your Learners

Welcome to another Monday Moanin. This past week has been one of the most challenging weeks for all workers and educators in Michigan. Our Governor went against his word and is supporting a right to work initiative and will sign it when it reaches his desk. He is also supporting sweeping changes to education in the state. A very divisive package of legislation that simply destroys public education and is based on inaccurate data about student achievement across the state. It is very easy to be discouraged and very difficult to be motivated to work hard and encourage  young learners. It also happens to be the week before the week of a long break over the holidays. This is usually one of the most challenging times in all schools.Students can be distracted by the upcoming break and from the daily challenges of attending school both socially and academically. Soooo, I am urging all educators to make a commitment to focus on their learners with a laser-like-effort this week. Here are a few doable suggestions from fellow teachers and administrators to help our learners.

• Try using the 10 10 10 rule. Each day talk to 10 different students for more than 10 seconds before 10:00 am.
• Teachers 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.
• 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.