Join the Two Writing Teachers Slice of Life Challenge.
This weekend I heard a presentation from an independent school principal. She told us that every first Friday the faculty and staff wear t-shirts that display the Italian words, “Ancora Imparo” which translates, “I am still learning.” They use this quote attributed to Michelangelo to show the students and parents that all are learners at their school. At first I felt a little envious. Wouldn’t I like to be a part of a school with this motto? But then I realized that I am a part of that motto.
Last week one of my students, a second grader, was reading about the chicken and the egg. You know, that age old question, which came first? But in the process, we read together that scientists believe that the chicken is a relative of the Tyrannosaurus Rex. “Mind Blown!” That’s what my kids say when we learn something unbelievable. When the older students arrived, Andrew made an announcement. There was a dramatic reaction. Fun! Learning! And I am right there with them.
When my students write, I write. I let them know my struggles, my worries. They all know I struggle with rhyming. They help me. We are all learners. “Ancora Imparo” “I am still learning.” I never pretend to know all the answers. We discover them together. We share in the learning.
Some days I worry that I don’t teach enough. I coach. I lead. I keep discipline…somewhat. But standing in front writing something on a white board that students copy or read and subsequently learn, that is not my style. I do not need to pine over another school’s philosophy. I just need to embrace my own. Maybe I’ll design my own t-shirt.
Reflections on the Teche 
I absolutely LOVE the idea of teachers (all of us) still learning because IF we are doing our jobs, and if we are alive, and if we are learning along with our students (and children) we are. It took me years to understand that the most effective teachers are really coaching the team. We can’t go into someone’s head and we can’t “play” for them; however, we can be that little voice that urges them onward and that little push that keeps them going through the tough parts. I think you should consider going into the tee shirt design business!
Your post reminds that when we teach we need to show our true selves to our learners – They need to know our struggles so they don’t think of the teacher/student relationship as one-sided – Teacher knows, student doesn’t. It is our every day actions in the classroom that send this message to our students.
Yes! I, too, worry about this…”Some days I worry that I don’t teach enough.” I love the idea of embracing my own philosophy! Now I wonder what MY t-shirt would look like. You’ve started the wheels turning, Margaret…as always!! Thank you!
Sharing your struggles is so powerful and brave! I am finding that theme again and again as I read SOL posts this morning. So many teacher learners who are risking themselves. Throwing in themselves in the ring to show their troubles. I just love the idea of a t-shirt for the teachers. As Michelle said, you’ve started the wheels turning!
What a great quote for a t-shirt, Margaret. I love reading about how you are a learner with your students. Coaching, leading and keeping discipline are incredibly important lessons to teach–you teach enough!
I LOVE this!
When my students write, I write. I let them know my struggles, my worries. They all know I struggle with rhyming. They help me. We are all learners. “Ancora Imparo” “I am still learning.” I never pretend to know all the answers. We discover them together. We share in the learning.
BRAVO!!!!!
That’s why teaching is just the best profession – you are always in the process of saying:“Mind Blown!”
Oh, we would have such a good time teaching together, Margaret. I agree, you are still a learner, and I suspect you will always be & not just because you are a teacher. Love your post! “Ancora Imparo” indeed!
I am always learning when I read Tuesday posts! I have to agree that a T-shirt designing could be a new discovery…..Your slogan sounds very much like you (or as I imagine you:-))
Oh, I love this post, and I would wear your t-shirt design!!! 🙂
I love this post Margaret. I have had a calligraphy version reading “And Still I am Learning” on, near, or over my desk for all of my teaching career. Definitely one to keep living by! Wonder and curiosity about the world both grows us up, and keeps us young. I am so enjoying getting to know you as we share our paths as writers.
Let your faith be bigger than your fear. I’ve been grappling with this issue all day today.
I think you’re teaching more than others who stand at the whiteboard and write. Way, way, way more.
Beautiful post, Margaret! I have felt my teaching take a definite turn this year. I am more of a learner along with my students and not so much the “sage on the stage.” This sometimes worries me…Am I doing enough? Am I shortchanging my students? Your post fills me with hope that I AM doing the right thing. Thank you!!
Jennifer
These are truly words to live by, Margaret. Thank you for sharing this thoughtful post!