We started our first Monday together with this quote. I introduced notebook writing. Begin with a quote, talk a bit about it, then write for 10 minutes. Writing alongside my students gives me great joy. I’ve missed this over the summer and happy to have it back.
Here’s a little peek into my notebook musings:
There’s a book by Parker Palmer with the title “The Courage to Teach.” I read it years ago, and I can’t remember much about it, but the title still resonates. I’m entering my 32nd year of teaching. I would be what they call a “veteran” teacher. You could say I’ve earned my grey hair, but I rarely feel like an expert. Everyday teaching requires courage. You must put aside the headache from lack of sleep (or lack of caffeine, or both), and be ready to listen and see each student as a child who needs you to love them, to know them, and to understand them.
Currently I am listening to Cornelius Minor’s book We Got This. I highly recommend it even though I’m just a few chapters in. Cornelius speaks of the courage to teach as well as the necessity that we be intentional with our every step. We need to teach in a way that meets the needs of our students. And we get to know these needs by listening.
I’m encouraged that what I do for my students (notebook writing, independent reading, etc.) are courageous steps toward being a compassionate teacher. I need to trust the years of experience to guide me and comfort me in the knowledge that I Got This. Courage doesn’t always roar. It’s a daily walk, a listening ear, and a loving heart.
Reflections on the Teche 
Love your last line: It’s a daily walk, a listening ear, and a loving heart.
It’s year 28 for me!! I agree, us veterans still need courage as I’m sill trying to be better. I’m going to remember your last line as I start my school year. Thanks for sharing. (I’m also reading Cornelius’ book!! We got this!!)
I am just beginning my school year soon. 34 years for me. It felt reassuring that I am not alone in wondering, will I be enough, know enough, do enough for these students on this day. Your thoughts today really resonate. Everything I read about your work shows me the heart and courage you share with your students. <3.
Lovely & just what I need with our school year right around the corner. This year I’m focusing on writing and writers’ notebooks. We’ll see what happens. I’m going to need the courage you talk about here, the courage to be compassionate to both them and myself.
I love these reflections. As I grew older in my career (38 years) I often thought about the courage to stay in the classroom when so many seemed eager to leave, but there’s no other place in education I wanted to be. I’ll miss the writing w/ students, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to write alongside others virtually in this community and in the poetry writing community I’m in.
Have a phenomenal year. I’m w/ you and other teachers in spirit and solidarity.
Your beginning quote and reflections really resonated with me. I think the former is important for both me and my incoming students and I will share it with them in the first days. Thanks!
I like your last line, which really improves upon the quote in your first line. I really appreciate your comments on listening. This is such an important aspect of what we are doing as teachers. May you have a wonderful 32nd year!!
I hate to be an echo, but that last line is golden! Lucky students to have you meeting their needs and listening and yes, friend, you do have this. Love your notebook musings.