CN Jr/Sr HS WeAreOne
January 19, 2020
Focus 2019-20
Communication
5 Questions to help us focus as we move into 2nd semester:
1. Am I modeling what I want to see in others?
Educators are role models for their students all day, every day. Because of this it is important to take our actions and behaviors very seriously. Modeling positive behavior— and even discussing it with students— helps create a positive environment where students feel safe and cared for and where they can develop behavioral skills they will use the rest of their lives.
As an administrator, teacher, educator, parent, spouse, etc., if I do not like what “I’m getting,” shouldn't I first and foremost ask myself if I am modeling what I want to see in others? And, if my expectations for others don’t match my own actions, how do I justify that? Am I talking the talk but not walking the walk?
We sometimes get caught in the notion that because of our "position" the expectations for us should be different. While this may be true in the "duties" we perform, I'm not convinced it extends to our daily behaviors. If we want others to be kind and caring, we can model by responding to those in need and treating others with compassion. If we want our students to be responsible, we can model by being on time, being prepared, and not making excuses. To model fairness we can work to understand the differences in our students and give all students equal opportunities to succeed. And if we want our students to be good citizens, to take pride in our school and community, we can demonstrate by getting involved, volunteering to lead, and speaking positively about our school, our staff, our peers.
We must avoid a possible pitfall that involves the belief that, because of a title or position, the same "rules" don’t apply. For those of us in education, the rules may apply even more. As George Couros explains, “The higher up we go, the more people we serve; not the other way around.” Each day we are serving 750+ students. None of us are perfect, but if we strive every day to model what we hope to see in others, our school, our homes, and our community would be positively impacted.
2. Am I making others better?
3. Am I caring for others, personally and professionally?
4. Am I making others feel valued?
5. Do I care about who's right, or what's best for kids?
Reading
Kids find online news in lots of different ways. But studies show they're not very good at interpreting what they see. How can we help them get better? One way to start is by teaching your students about how online news articles are structured.
(See link below)
Insightful, minimalist app gets students tracking emotions and values
Bottom line: A practical tool to use in combination with discussion about emotional intelligence and character development.
7th Grade Pokagon Trip
I also received the following email over the weekend. Please share with our students and thank you for developing and supporting good character in our students! Your efforts and caring make a difference!
We were visiting Pokagon State Park for the toboggan run and met some of your students. They were very courteous, friendly and respectful. We are 65 years old and enjoyed talking with them while waiting for the run. Please send our compliments to the students and staff at your school.
NECC Champions!
Let's Rock the Last 80 Days!
Thank you!
Upcoming Events:
1/29 - Jr/Sr High SOM
2/17 - Staff Day (eLearning)