ENERGY

Thinking about the year ahead connected me with many potential words to guide me through: ASPIRE, ACCOMPLISH, BALANCE, ENERGY, IMAGINE... I was in search of a word that would push me through my current and new commitments & goals.  I wanted a word that would help me to focus on the positive and 'choose happy.'  But I also wanted a word that would extend my journey set forth by INSPIRE (2012) & BELIEVE (2013). 

As the New Year approached, ENERGY was the word clearly calling my name... Aspiring towards my goals to accomplish in the new year would require an abundance of ENERGY.  Balancing my family's daily schedule and calendar with fun and relaxation would demand a strategic use of ENERGY.  Above all, though, focusing on ENERGY would help me to develop a routine of healthy choices and positive mindset, allowing me to continue recognizing and sharing INSPIRATION while BELIEVING all things are possible.  

I will be aware of the fuel I need to recharge my body and mind with necessary ENERGY. 

I will strategically use my ENERGY to ensure I maintain my focus and accomplish my goals.

I will be mindful of the ENERGY I bring into the spaces I enter. 

I am confident ENERGY will provide me with the surge I need for 2014.

~Celina

Conversations

"My idea of good company is the company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation; that is what I call good company." ~Jane Austen

Conversations are essential for growth to occur.

Whether they take place through a means of collaboration, discussions with individuals, or self-reflective processes, conversations offer opportunities to discover new ideas and perspectives. They also open doors to deeper understanding of concepts. Each allow for moments of self-discovery and trajectories of forward movement.

Taking every opportunity to engage in frequent conversations is a quality of a life-long learner. Those who seek deeper understanding and a variety of perspectives gain a wider lens in which to view a situation or accomplish a goal. They also provide themselves with the possibility of exponential growth.

One must be an integral part of the conversation, though, to reap benefits. Bystanders profit minimally and offer very little to other participants. Every member present should encourage the equal participation of all, as true learning will occur from valuing all perspectives.

Choosing to participate whole-heartedly in discussions breaks down barriers and clears up misconceptions. Assumptions are limited when all perspectives are shared, questions are asked and answered, and open-minds are present. Individuals should provide evidence to support their stance, but also listen intently to other viewpoints. Progress toward goals can only be achieved when all perspectives are considered.

It does take courage and trust for authentic conversations to occur. Counting on one another to bring experiences, knowledge, and resources to the table is a first step. Dialogue can then move forward efficiently when common goals are understood. Participating with positive energy keeps a conversation in motion. Considering various standpoints, while valuing evidence, builds momentum. Demonstration of appreciation is necessary to keep people energetic and committed to conversations. Finally, identifying solutions/progress regarding goals strengthens future conversations and collaborative relationships.

It takes the minds of many to make amazing things occur. Change is not an individual process, but rather a collegial effort to make things happen. The support of one another causes dynamic shifts when we align our practice, share our knowledge, and create common goals. Let the conversations begin.

~Celina

Let It Unfold Naturally

Ever have  a moment in education where what you feel pushed to do and what you think is right collide? I had one of those moments this past weekend as I was thinking ahead to the major testing we have this week in reading. I began reflecting on the item types and questions that can come up on the assessment which had me thinking about what could be CRAMMED in this week. 

That saddens me really, because we have been so engaged in purposeful and meaningful learning these past few weeks. Our students have been delving into genres with renewed interest and digging deep into different kinds of text through close reading. We wrapped up Wonder and our students created amazing precepts of their own, many drawing on their One Little Words or our December study of respecting diversity. In math students are expanding their strategies for the basic operations and applying their understanding of the mathematical practice of "One big whole, break it up" to fractions, decimals and division (that last one without even labeling it with the D word!). Our work with science has infused our curriculum connecting our mathematical practices to science applications, finding symbolism and learning about electricity in our reading of The City of Ember and even experimenting in our work with art (ever consider all the variables that can affect a watercolor painting?). We are even extending our work with culture into the diversity that shaped the formation of the United States. Our learning has been varied, yet intentional, and in many cases it is the kids that have spun our thinking into even new and better ideas, letting the learning UNFOLD NATURALLY!

And this is where I am grateful that I am able to process my thinking with Celina. I sent her a text about something that could be CRAMMED in, but without my rationale. She then responded with her own thinking, and I was forced to rethink my idea and recognize if for the proverbial TEACH TO THE TEST CLIFF. I jokingly thanked her for allowing me to talk myself "off the ledge" and relaxed. Amazing, engaging and powerful learning happens in our classroom every day, and taking time away from that for just one test is not honoring our students or our goals.

So as the week unfolds, I vow to let it do so naturally. 

Dear INSPIRE,

Dear INSPIRE,
Who knew one-little-word could be so extremely powerful. Around every corner you lurked, popping out when I least expected it and dazzling me with your brilliance. You brightened my year, as I worked to achieve personal and professional goals.

I needed you through good times and bad. When amazing things happened and I wanted to shout from the rooftops, you were there. When tough times arose and I wanted to curl up and retreat, you were there. When I was at a standstill and unsure of the path to take, you were there.

INSPIRE, you allowed me to find my way on my learning journey but guided me gracefully in a purposeful direction. You also took the time to help me recognize & celebrate my growth. Sometimes you glistened through the words, ideas, and comfort of close friends. Sometimes you spoke gently through the close embrace of family members. Often you boldly showed your face in blogs, articles, quotes, art and books. And as 2012 gained momentum, I found you speaking through me, and I humbly accepted the honor. The year became more about sharing you with others than seeking you out for myself.

Thank you for being by my side during 2012. This is not good-bye, but rather I would like to think of you as a true friend in which I will keep in close contact with through the years to come You have taught me so much, especially how to BELIEVE in myself and the journey in which I continue to travel.

I appreciate you, friend.
~Celina