Sunday, February 12, 2017

Reflecting and Learning




I'm pretty sure each of us understands that when we come to school each day we are going to be faced with new challenges. Sometimes these will be small situations and we can use our past experiences to find solutions quickly. Other times these will be large challenges that are new to us in some way. This past week has brought some challenges my way. I have been reflecting on two of these challenges most of the weekend and thinking about how I want to take action on these challenges next week - this time with a fresh mindset and after some support from friends.

I know that I am not the only one who has been thinking about this. My friend, Todd Nesloney, an administrator in Texas, recently posted:

There are some days, after much reflection where I am so aware of my shortcomings and areas to work on as an administrator and educator. It's in those days of doubt and feeling like a loser that I have to know I am working to be my best. Even when all you hear are what you're doing wrong, there are things to celebrate. None of us are in this career because we're perfect. I know I have a lot of work to do to be even half the administrator I want to be. But I'm working on it. I will always work on it.

And my friend, MIchael Medvinsky, a teacher in southeast Michigan, posted:

Today, I felt like I failed learners. I have so much to learn. I will try again tomorrow.

I am going to continue to try to understand my shortcomings and to work on them to be a more effective leader. This week, I am going to strive to be like the girl on the hill in the video. Some challenges are scary. But I will use the support of those around me to tackle them and to continue to learn from my experiences. And I'm thankful for another week to try again.

~Michele