Post date: Apr 9, 2014 11:42:13 AM
As we steamroll into the final quarter of another school year, my mind is filled with all of the professional knowledge gained during this year. More importantly, what should we try to tackle at this point in the year versus what should we hold on to for next year? I was lucky enough to attend several types of professional development activities throughout the year, as were all of you. How do we decide what, when and how to share this new found information with the staff? Just some of the outstanding speakers I’ve heard this year were: Rick and Becky DuFour, Mike Mattos, Scott Habeeb, Michael Fullan, Lucy West, Ray Jones, Robyn Jackson, and Todd Whittaker. Last, but not least, our own expert colleagues shared their expertise throughout the year regarding Greek and Latin Roots, data usage, math and reading collaboration, and other valuable information. Every time I attend one of these sessions, I am energized with new ideas and motivation to continue doing everything possible to improve student achievement.
Most recently, many of us attended the National Speaker Series in which Teach Like a Pirate author, Dave Burgess, created an energetic and inspiring presentation on how to “Teach Like a Pirate.” I felt that Dave’s way to ignite passion into teaching was perfect to hear this time of the year. His high-energy presentation gave practical ideas that could be implemented immediately. Our teachers who attended felt the excitement that Dave has for teaching and were revitalized to try some new ideas. One of the last chapters of Dave’s book is “Where Do I Start?” There are some thoughts in this chapter to help teachers in the classroom and administrators on helping move our school in the direction of passionate teachers and engaged students. I really liked his use of John Wooden’s saying that “the team who makes the most mistakes usually wins.” If you want to be at an expert level in teaching or leading, you need to be willing to fall flat on your face. On a side note, in the March NAESP Communicator, there is an article for principals to “Lead Like a Pirate”. There are some great ideas for using the book with your staff. The authors, Tony Sinanis, Erin Simpson, and Jessica Johnson suggest that you follow #TLAPchat and @burgessdave on Twitter for more ideas
Getting back to my original point- I’m ready to take action…..I just need to decide which action to take first! J
Best wishes for a fantastic last quarter of school!
Cheryl