An Educator's Community

“Optimism is the most important human trait, because it allows us to evolve our ideas,
to improve our situation, and to hope for a better tomorrow.” ~ Seth Godin 

With a toast to the new year, comes reflection, goal setting, and fresh beginnings.  Although the statistics around resolutions are grim, the resounding message that they bring is that everyone genuinely wants to improve one's self or further their education.  While more often than not, life gets in the way and those resolutions get lost in the winter winds, it is evident that the focus on self-improvement is there. I am in a graduate program and my most recent class had us looking into the origin of our names, more as an icebreaker activity.  While I may be a little more trusting with numerology and astrology than some, I was shocked at how closely some of the name meanings seem to match who I am and what I strive for.  If anyone knows me, they know that I like to get things done.  Typically, if I get something in my head, I try everything in my power to make sure that it happens.  I guess I have always been like that, but been a little more aware of it lately, and apparently, I have my middle name to thank!

One of the mantras I have been focusing on more recently is not necessarily asking the question "what bothers you?" but "what are you going to do about it?"  How can you act on something to make it better?  Better for you and the greater good!

This attitude could not find a better fit than inside a school district.  It appears that anyone (parents, teachers, students, administrators) having a connection with education can find something to complain about.  And typically, everyone does! I know it is human nature to question and I know how easy it is to critique and complain.  I am not sure this is my resolution, however I am trying to be more mindful of asking the question... What are you going to do about it? Living on an island and having one public school, sometimes options are limited or one can feel as though their voice cannot be heard, due to a lack of numbers.  The role of an educator is always evolving and many are struggling with embracing new technology, new leadership, new personalities etc. My experience has shown me that when change is in the air, it is easier to close your door and do what you know.  However, we have a number of teachers who have proven that they are ready for more.  They are not going to settle for comfortable.  They make up our newest Educator's Community.  Teachers who are dedicated to making our school great, so that our kids can soar. Tonight, our Educator's Community just made another step towards greatness.  Professional conversations not just about what we are not okay with, but plans and promise about what we can do about it, together to make our schools not only better for our kids, but for our community.

While there is no sprinting in education, this is another step in the right direction.  Great energy as we kick off 2016.  So, here's to positive and collaborative steps towards greatness through dedication and action! With our focus on improving ourselves and our mindsets for the greater good, we are bound to recruit new renegades in this Educator's Community.