Vision

I was challenged this week to create a vision for my teaching by the Unshakeable book study (book is by Angela Watson).  Because I am also reading The Innovator’s Mindset by George Couros(for the 3rd time) and being challenged to blog more, I decided to combine the two challenges.

Vision Statement:  I want to be an innovative risk taker who strives for success so that my students will be innovative risk takers who strive for success.

It is sometimes difficult to be open and honest in front of 8th graders.  They don’t always naturally care about their teachers.  However, I have found that the more I am open and honest with them, the more the seem to care about me, their peers, and themselves.  Incredible sense of community is being built in my classroom through this openness.

I have been purposefully sharing with my students the new things I am trying (and sometimes failing at), my struggles to change at times, and my joy in succeeding at something new.  And I notice they are sharing these things as well.

A wonderful side effect of all of this is that when I assign a project, I see them taking risks to learn new ways to produce final products, seeking help when stumped, and supporting each other through their growth.

Result: My classroom is a place I want to be and learn - and I hope it is for my students as well!