Friday, May 17, 2013

Challenge

Teaching shares many similarities to parenting--there are the good days and the challenging days.  The challenging days prompt reflection, revision, and renewed effort.  Similar to parenting, good teachers want to get it right--we want to serve children well.

Unlike parenting, the teacher works with system complexity which includes the many structures in place to provide materials, leadership, and support.  We can't do it alone, and we rely on many to do the job well. When systems work with organization, lead time, and support, schools thrive.

Also, when the structures are devoted in both time and focus to what's best for children, then systems move ahead with success.  When the focus moves from a child-focus, then systems distance themselves from success.

Hence as one reviews a learning community's strengths, I suggest the focus continually seek to understand actions with regard to what really matters for children, what truly helps children succeed with happiness, inspiration, and optimal learning.

System complexity can challenge that focus, but we have to resist that challenge and turn our attention again to children's needs and interests.