Jordan is one of my former students when I was a P.E. teacher in Scotland County NC. A year ago he was diagnosed with cancer, Jordon beat the odds and defeated cancer, graduated from Scotland H.S. Tuesday we got word that the cancer returned. 5 to 6 month to live. 🙏🏻 is needed
If you’re a teacher... don’t assume your students know you care about them. You gotta show ‘em... every day. If you’re an administrator... don’t assume your teachers know you support them. You gotta show ‘em... every day.
I’m not in favor of using the word “miracle” when talking about the great stuff that happens in schools. Miracles can’t be explained. When kids’ lives are turned around... it is because of the compassion, dedication, and perseverance of teachers. TEACHERS are the reason!
If the next time you say ‘hello’ to a student in the hall they look startled & confused, then you know there aren’t enough adults speaking to students in non-academic spaces.
It also means it’s time to double down on your ‘hellos.’
Some kids carry around with them the burden of a bad reputation. Be the teacher who gives them a fresh start. Be the teacher who sees in them the potential that their parents see. YOU can be the teacher that helps them “turn the corner.”
Sometimes, kids make bad choices. Sometimes, they really screw up. We hold them accountable... but we can also extend some grace. They need to know we still like them. They need to learn a lesson... but it is never constructive when they feel alienated from us.
Teachers and administrators do not become exceptional by accident. They work hard at their job. They reflect on their work and are constantly learning. They collaborate with colleagues to make stronger decisions. And they cultivate meaningful relationships with their students.
Students make bad choices, but that doesn't mean they are bad students. Knowing the difference has to be taught. Acknowledge the behavior but still be kind to the student.
Many students feel overwhelmed. Their teachers should understand how that feels... because many of them feel overwhelmed as well. And yep... any administrator who recognizes the challenges they’re facing, deals with it also. We should all just be patient with each other.
Some students have a hard home life… and sometimes, that shows up as a bad attitude at school. Teachers can’t fix the home situation… but I’m grateful for the ones who are understanding and patient. There is always something going on behind that “bad attitude.”
There is never an easy day for an educator, but there is an infinite amount of possibilities. Our charge is to be open minded enough to see them within each child.