Join the Two Writing Teachers blog for the Slice of Life Challenge.
There’s no denying that this has been a difficult start to a new year of teaching. I’ve been faced with a number of new directives, new policies and new students. I have felt like I would never quite get my feet on the ground.
I started this week with teaching the Book, Head, Heart framework from Disrupting Thinking by Kylene Beers and Bob Probst. (Christina Noseck was interviewed by Scholastic and quoted in this article about the framework.) While I was discussing the Heart part of reviewing a book, I made a mental connection. Here I’ve been overwhelmed and quite ranty if you’ve been within earshot lately, but what is the heart of my call to teaching?…the kids.
I looked at my group of students all attentive and ready to learn and realized that none of that other stuff matters all that much. Not as much as this: The heart of my teaching is connecting to the heart of a child. This is going to be a great year all because of the hearts I have the privilege of spending time nurturing.
Reflections on the Teche 
So true. And when you can stop and reflect in that, it helps so much I think! Lucky students!
Such an important message and reminder! Thank you for sharing your heart.
Amidst the hubbub, it’s easy to lose sight of the important things, isn’t it? I’m going to check out the Book, Head, Heart framework as I’ve seen so many references to it. I’m so glad it helped you to make a connection and to find a positive entry path into your year. From what I know of you, it will be a rewarding and inspiring one for both you and your students.
Not everyone connects to children the way that we as teachers do. The world is lucky to have you to help nurture these kids!
Students are at the heart of what we do; they are the reason we teach. Tara posted a slice today very similar to yours. It makes me sad to know that teachers everywhere…magnificent teachers…still are made to feel they aren’t doing enough, or there’s a better way to do it…or don’t forget to remember who’s in charge here…. Wouldn’t it be nice to return to a celebration of teachers and the wonderful work they do…to launch the new year! I can dream, can’t I?
Your post resonates with me, Margaret! That’s where my focus needs to be- the children in front of me.
It’s always about the kids – our teaching lives are built for them, right?
I cannot imagine how hard it is to have new directives and new policies on top of new students. However, if there’s anyone who can see the forest from the trees, it’s you, Margaret. You’re staying focused on what matters — the kids.
My sincerest wishes for a good school year.
Bingo! Kids first. There in we will find our joy. I love Disrupting Thinking and the hope Beers and Probst share with teachers.
This line says it all, Margaret: “The heart of my teaching is connecting to the heart of a child.” Best wishes for connecting your heart to your teaching.
Exactly. And the heart is an ever-expanding thing.