Mindful Monday: Insanity

Albert Einstein defined insanity​ as doing ​the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. 

I run across this quote from time to time and always have the same reaction. "Duh!" There is even a small part of me that thinks, "Man, I feel sorry for people who are afraid to try new things; how stifling."

Only, when I ran across it recently, I couldn't help but wonder, "Is it me he's talking to?"

After 15 years of teaching, I'm not claiming to be an expert and I certainly don't have it all figured out, but I'd like to think that I have somewhat of an idea as to what I'm doing.

Only it hit me. Am I using the same strategies or techniques again and again only to wonder why they aren't working? Am I teaching like I did 10 years ago or even 5 years ago?

Teaching, just like life, is ever evolving. The students that once walked through our classroom doors 5 to 10 years ago or even pre-pandemic, just 18 months ago, are not the same kids that are walking through our doors now.

Just because it worked once doesn't mean that it will work now, and we have to be okay with that. Take time to evaluate what is and isn't working in your classroom right now. I challenge you to be reflective and honest with yourself. Maybe it's time to tweak your systems, your procedures or the way you deliver your content.

We are NEVER too old or too experienced to learn or try something new. Take Mrs. Schoener, our fantastic TAG teacher, with over 30 years of experience, she rose to the occasion ans was challenged to learn how to teach hybrid this year. Was it easy, no! Did it push her outside her comfort zone, absolutely! Nevertheless, she pushed through and met the needs of her students.

As we determine how we will proceed this year, take note of where your students are not just academically, but also socially and emotionally. Perhaps the norm for your grade level is no longer the case. Make adjustments and give yourself grace as you try something new.

Don't go through the whole year wondering why the students aren't getting it or behaving like students you have previously had. If you aren't getting the results you'd like, it's time to start trying something new!

If you'd like help with a new strategy or would like to talk through any of your of your existing processes, ask for help. We work in a building with over 200 collective years of experience. We are most definitely better together!