Friday Focus - October 7

"Nothing you do for children is ever wasted.  They seem not to notice us, hovering, averting their eyes, and they seldom offer thanks, but what we do for them is never wasted." ~Garrison Keillor

The best part of my job is getting to spend time in classrooms and observe students across a variety of settings.  One commonality I notice amongst all of our students across grade levels and school settings (be it their classroom, special or lunch room) is that they crave attention, guidance, and adult approval.  Our students need you.  They rely on you for instruction, compassion, and consistency.  Although it may not always be readily apparent, your students like it when you take control.  Your students know that good teachers control their classrooms, and they understand and appreciate the boundaries you set.  Effective teachers establish a set of clear, though limited, expectations with consequences that are consistently and fairly meted out.  Teachers who are well organized tend to have the most disciplined classes.  The structure of the classroom prevents a lot of off-task behavior, and students know what to expect from day to day.  When an organized teacher tells a student to keep their desk neat and organized, he/she is more likely to be able to do this, because it has been modeled by the teacher.

As you continue to build students' independence (with the Daily 5) you are also helping them to develop ownership for their learning and have self-discipline.  I see students thriving when they are made aware of their learning progress and involved in developing their learning goals, especially when the parents are also on the same page.  Effective teachers take the time to model reflection and have students reflect on their learning using the same lesson objective/goals that the teacher did.
In addition, despite the many standards and vast curriculum within each subject, the great teachers find time to integrate lessons on citizenship/good character and are always modeling the necessary skills for students to be good friends and show kindness toward others.

You have a difficult job, but the most important job.  The life lessons you teach our students will last a lifetime!  Thank you for sharing your passion for learning with our students while teaching them relevant lessons about life.  Our students are always watching us and learning from us within the walls of our classrooms and beyond.  Therefore, be firm, be fair, be consistent, and use good judgement.  Teach your students what you know, but also who you are.