Today we began our first work session for Rigor and Excellence. The keynote presentation was a 20 minute look at building capacity in human beings. And that's what all teachers do! We viewed, reflected, and shared our thinking on the Doorpost production titled The Butterfly Circus. A huge element of effective practice is regular reflection. Then we talked about the importance of building community -- a community of fellow teacher-learners as well as a community of student-learners in our classrooms. John modeled how to get a class to do a basic 'silent lineup.' Our outstanding group of eleven was 'in line' in 30 seconds. Not a word was spoken until we shared about one thing we all have in common -- a birthday.
Good work everyone, especially the person with the Driver's License. Yeah!
ReplyDeleteI wish you all well. I will jump in and out. I like to learn alongside you too.
We learned how to develop community by doing it. John has allowed us to feel comfortable, and Keith and I think the ability to share with you teachers is of great value.
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I am excited to be part of this community of new teachers.
ReplyDeleteI am looking forward to a strong start for this upcoming school year. In the few sessions that we have already had, I have been able to draw upon the experiences and perspectives of my colleagues to bolster my planning, preparation and thinking as a teacher.
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