Warner Update
Making a difference, one person at a time
No Surprises (Feb. 16 - Feb. 23rd)
However, it took one moment to change me.
Years ago I was sitting on the other side of the table. I was in the parent seat. As I sat there I heard several things that I expected. I heard about his academic progress. I heard about his low confidence. I heard about his friendships. Everything was going as I would have expected.
Then the teacher began sharing her concerns.
In a blink of an eye I went from, on the same page to blindsided.
In the hours and days following the meeting I (as the parent) was upset. I was angry with the teacher for not sharing her concerns earlier. As time went on I began to use the incident as a tool to better understand being on the other side of the table.
Since that conference, I've made it a priority to do three things when I meet with families.
First, I do my very best to share facts and information. My personal opinion may be valuable, but only if I believe it will help.
Second, pictures and artifacts can say a thousand words. As educators it's critical that we have examples to share.
Third and final point, nobody likes surprises. Front loading and transparency are extremely helpful when communicating with people.
As I reflect on the memory what I realize is, it took an uncomfortable and upsetting meeting to help me understand how to be a better educator. Sometimes the best lessons are in moments of adversity.
This week as you meet with families. I hope you will consider the three points I shared. I also hope you will put yourself in the shoes of your families. In all likelihood, you have their most prized possession.
Next Week At A Glance:
Tuesday, February 19th: Happy BDay to Courtney Horsfall
Tuesday, February 19th: Hearing & Vision Testing at Warner
Tuesday, February 19th: Parent/Teacher Conferences (Dinner provided by PTO)
Wednesday, February 20th: Grades 3-5 Tennis Assembly in the gym at 8:45am
Wednesday, February 20th: Hearing & Vision Testing at Warner
Wednesday, February 20th: Giving Club after school
Wednesday, February 20th: PLC
- Discuss with grade level partner results of Q3 assessment. If it has not been given discuss timelines and additional strategies to prepare.
- WIN Time organization
Wednesday, February 20th: Parent/Teacher Conferences (Dinner provided by PTO)
Thursday, February 21st: Warner TEAM Meeting 9am
Thursday, February 21st: Hearing & Vision Testing at Warner
Thursday, February 21st: 5th Grade Band Testing
Thursday, February 21st: Craft Club after school
Thursday, February 21st: Parent/Teacher Conferences
Thursday, February 21st: 6:30pm February PTO Meeting
Friday, February 22nd: No Staff Meeting