A Surprise Around Every Corner

What an incredible start to the school year! As I walk the halls and into classrooms I am finding the students are bubbling with excitement to be at school every day.  98% and 99% attendance rates are truly something to celebrate!

I've been thinking a lot about the little surprises that have come our way in the last week.  That's the best part of education.  Each day is a new adventure.  Some days are truly more exhausting than others, but it is the adventure that strives us to give our very best.

You can not always predict or prevent certain surprises.  However, what I am most proud of and impressed with is how our teams rally around each other for support and guidance.  It is crucially important to recognize the strengths in our colleagues and seek them out in times of need.  Not only does that show humility, but it also allows us to learn from one another.

What is also amazing is how truly complex certain students can be.  Our students are coming to us with a variety of experiences and backgrounds.  It is our responsibility to recognize the whole child and do whatever it takes to get that student to succeed.  I challenge all of us to think about policies and procedures that we have in our classrooms; are they in the best interest of each and every child in our classroom?  If the policy isn't working for some, why is that?

 Every child is different.  One size and policy doesn't fit all.  We have to take into account the needs and strengths of the child.  Of course, approximately 80% of students will fit into the majority of polices (in ideal situations).  However, we know that there are always those few that it doesn't work for.  It is always easy to recognize what the child can't do and what polices they do not comply with.  It should be easier for us to recognize strengths and determine how we are going to help them succeed.

As we continue to get to know our students, I challenge you to continue to peel the layers back on each and every one of our children and be creative and flexible with their educational path.  There is not one single path for all.