6/7/2020 7 Comments "To create a connected, relationship-based team ...require(s) remarkable courage in action. They require brave leaders who aren’t scared to step into discomfort and who understand that trust is built in the small moments." Dr. Jody CarringtonSo we come to the final post! What do we do now?
First, you need to remind yourself of your power and influence as a teacher, as one of the most impactful relationships in a child’s life. And accept that awesome responsibility. Sekreter (2019) says that teachers with positive self-regard and highly developed self-awareness are self-motivated to learn and communicate effectively with others. They can accurately assess their own strengths and limitations and want to receive new perspectives and feedback from others to learn from. They have a positive impact on others and create a positive cycle in relationships where people speak clearly and assertively. Most importantly, they acknowledge that they are the best for the teaching profession. That is a powerful statement. You are the best for the teaching profession. Yes indeed. Next you need to find your team of like-minded teachers (you can start here!) who also believe that this work is a calling, and that it is extremely important and pivotal for children. This team should support you, and challenge you, question and wonder with you about what it is to teach and how we can be better. And yes, sometimes it is going to fall to you to be the first one to be brave and courageous, and start the conversation. You will be respected for your willingness to engage in hard, meaningful discussions about this work. I was recently asked if being vulnerable and courageous is ever “too much” or the wrong approach in teaching. Here was my response: I think that being vulnerable is never the wrong approach, because the intentions are right. There are definitely boundaries around "over sharing" but these circumstances usually happen when someone has different motives that educating or connection driving the sharing (personal processing, needing sympathy, trying to achieve connection in an authentic way). I believe that when the motives are to truly to build relationship, to understand that we are all human and important in the classroom, and to deeply know each person in the room, this is always right. This requires an open heart from all, including the teacher. This type of environment also allows for forgiveness when it isn't the right thing (so it's still right). Being vulnerable and courageous doesn't mean you have to lay it all out on the floor in an emotional mess; it means really seeing others and being willing to be seen, for all of our great flaws and strengths to come together to make something new. I sincerely hope that you have not been put off by my own vulnerability, and that you are willing to be a part of MY team as I move forward to become the best teacher (person) I can possibly be. I am definitely willing to be a part of yours. As Jody Carrington (2019) says, “Sit with the winners. The conversation is different.” You are all winners. Thank you for engaging in conversation with me. With great admiration and respect, Jana *. *. * Please share a comment below about what this post made you consider or wonder.
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