It's March, and March is for slicing. Anyone is welcome to join us through Two Writing Teachers, slicing, sharing, and commenting on other slices!
It had been a long morning of meeting with other literacy specialists and trying to figure out next steps in terms of programming.
What are our core beliefs?
What do we want to make sure remains intact?
How will we roll out whatever program we decide to adopt, and--oh yes-- how will we pay for it?
All of these questions and more were asked and not or only partially answered as we created slide decks and analyzed programs.
As my attention waxed and waned, F. walked through the conference room on his way to get his lunch. With all of the consolidation of spaces over the years, our conference room doubles as the refrigerator space for teachers, and people often have to walk through meetings to get their lunch.
F. is one of those teachers who is always ready to try new ideas. When I returned from a conference, he wanted to know what I'd learned and what new tricks he could try in his classrooms. I told him about one-minute writes, and he has been using them over the last few weeks. Even his students will find me in the hall and want to share a short writing piece since he always gives me way too much credit.
As I was at the end of the table, it was easy for him to share a story with me.
"K. was in the process of signing out to use the bathroom when I announced a one-minute write," F. shared, "and he turned right around."
"'I'm not missing that,' K. said." F. was chuckling as he told me the story.
During a time when I wonder about my impact, this story made my day.
Impact. It matters. I’m glad you got to feel yours. I’m sure it’s greater than it sometimes feels. You’ll have to let me know what your team is deciding about reading… stay strong. I was glad to read the conversation still includes your core beliefs. Can’t let go of those! ❤️ Jess
ReplyDeleteThis is such a good example to remember, that it is the little things that can stick with students and teachers. Also, making sure we aren't so rushed that we can't have these little conversations to share and listen. I'm going into a similar planning day today, and I appreciate your thinking on our impact!
ReplyDeleteWhat a positive slice. Kudos to you for being that spark who passes on alove of writing- the teachers and their students are better for your work!
ReplyDeleteI love the contrast between not really feeling like the work is useful ("All of these questions and more were asked and not or only partially answered") and the very meaningful ways you're impacting teachers and kids. What a great story--that K didn't want to miss the one minute of writing!
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