Daily Message

Scaffolding each message to fit the readers and writers in my room....

The power...

      ...of amazing teammates!

What an amazing privilege to be a part of a team that collaborates, cooperates, and shares responsibility. 





These are unforgettable times of leading and learning for me.







A few years ago, I made a big shift in my life.  It was a complete flip from my previous work and after the first few months of learning, I felt an uneasiness in my forward focus. I knew I was seriously blessed with such a fantastic opportunity to be a part of a team that I had missed so much in my last position.  It was work I had never considered, and I was in my ultimate "uncomfort" zone.

We were a new team hired the same summer to tackle new initiatives in education, and I couldn't have selected a better team myself.  Our leader is not only brilliant, but has such a way of connecting with people and simply a discernment and vision for seeing how we all fit together to make the perfect team. 

This was the year to test our work... to support staff through incredible change.  The kindness of the group, the balance of responsibility, the willingness to come together and plan and problem solve has been very fulfilling and faced with confidence and a positive approach. 

We are almost half way there.  The work will continue all with the knowing that success could not have been accomplished without the work of a TEAM.

until later~

b~

Back to Myself

Finally...I feel like I am getting back to my normal self!  Three years ago, I was able to seize an opportunity and make another career change that is very different than a day filled with kindergarteners.  But...I am loving it.  It stretches my thinking, and allows me to work with a variety of educators.  Still working on some minor health issues, but I am dreaming again of continued education, reflecting on my practice, setting goals, and trying to put myself in the shoes of others. I am encouraged!  I am taking time to read for pleasure along with stretching myself with a variety of professional text from curricular focuses, formative assessment, and leadership. 

Thankful for the shift in my thinking back to my passion.

Hoping to make the time to blog more frequently....writing sometimes takes us to a place we didn't expect and changes and develops as we do. 

Looking forward to continuing the journey~

until later~

b~

Books, Books, Books...

....but this is one of my favorites!!

'The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings.'

 William Shakespeare ~ Julius Caesar

 

 

It really was a John Green summer for me.   I read Will Grayson, Will Grayson, Paper Towns, Looking for Alaska, and have An Abundance of Katherines on the list for this fall.

 

The Fault in our Stars made the top of my summer reading list favorites.  This book shares the story of Hazel, a young, teenage girl who has always been terminally ill.  She meets August Waters at her cancer support group, and he changes the way she thinks about the world.

 

My favorite quote is from this book.  It is one that I have reflected upon many times since I finished this book.

                       "Grief does not change you, Hazel, it reveals you."

 

I continually am reminded of this quote as I walk through challenges, as well as, have the privilege of watching and/or walking beside those who are experiencing a time of grief.

 

Powerful text....memorable summer of reading and experiencing the changes life continually brings!

 

until later~

 

b~

 



So Excited!

 

 

 

Seeing Jon Bon Jovi....

Yes...I'm not sure that this has anything to do with Literacy...but definitely my life.  So excited to finally see Jon Bon Jovi in concert tonight. I have always dreamed of going, but never thought I should spend the time and money.  I am learning to look at life differently these last few years.  This is going to make a great memory for us.  My expectations are pretty high for a great day in Chicago and an amazing night of great music. 

Until Later~

b~

Leaders...

 

....show they care by doing what is right...not what is easiest!!

 

 

 

Leaders Care

 

 

 

Love this little video. Confirmation that some leaders are born.

I believe that those who wish to lead can be taught if they truly have a leader in their life willing to invest the time to teach. Just like with any instruction, new leaders need a strong example, a scaffolded approach to all the steps and then that GRADUAL release of responsibility. Continual coaching and encouragement is so important, but knowing that they have support and a leader who cares...means success.

until later~

b~

A Pep Talk from Kid President to You

...and then create something that will make the world awesome!

 

We All Need a Pep Talk

until later~

b~