I love making New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps it is my
fascination with creating lists and checking things off of the list. Perhaps it
is the idea that each year is a chance to start fresh, and envision fabulous
accomplishments. Perhaps I simply like the word “resolution” with its strong
clear meaning, and the way the “r” sound rolls off my tongue.
Regardless of the reason, this year I decided to share some
of my “teaching” resolutions with the world (or at least my friends who are
kind enough to read my little musings). In the past, my teaching resolutions involved
me giving more of my time, energy, and patience to my students. This year, I
have decided to that my resolutions are to help me create a more balanced
approach to my work:
- I will give less homework.
I have always striven to give meaningful work, but I will
continuously evaluate the quantity to make sure it is appropriate to the goals.
(I am sure students will appreciate this one.)
- I will leave work at a reasonable hour.
I try to make myself available to my students, but lately I
realized that I am spending too much time at work. The truth is that my
personal time is valuable too. A teacher who feels worn out cannot be good for
anyone!
- I will pursue my interests during my free time.
I am always encouraging my students to pursue their dreams
in sports, drama, music, art, etc….Isn’t it time I went back to being a role
model in this area too?
- I will continue to spread the message that learning is fun, education is important, and there are no limits to creativity….
Long after students have forgotten the content, the quizzes,
and the projects, my hope is that they remember that a teacher believed that every
student had gifts and talents to offer in the classroom and beyond.
Wishing everyone a very happy New Year's celebration!
