Reflections

As a child, I spent a great deal of time with my great aunts who were retired elementary school teachers.  Ellie was born in 1902 and began her education in a rural, one-room school house in Alabama.  Lena had a similar beginning.  Both ladies beat the odds and obtained the equivalent of a master's degree in education.  My Aunt Ellie taught third grade for fifty-one years and my Aunt Lena taught third grade for forty-nine years. 

Throughout the course of their lives, they witnessed the birth of the modern educational system.  They experienced first-hand some of the greats: Montessori, Piaget, Bruner, Vigotsky, and Binet.  They lived through tumultuous times: World War I, World War II, The Great Depression, Segregation, Desegregation, assassinations, and the 60's revolution.  They were strong, brilliant, compassionate, dedicated women who were amazing role models.  They were born teachers!

As I think about the people who have influenced my love of teaching, Miss Ellie and Miss Lena would be at the top of my list followed by my grandmother, Dot, and my mother, Cheryl.  As you can see, teaching runs in the family!  From all of these amazing women, I learned first and foremost that the mind of a child is a wonderful thing and all children are capable of learning and reaching their potential. 

Last weekend I attended the 2010 Reform Symposium.  Amazing and inspiring!  Throughout the weekend, educators from around the globe gathered in virtual conference spaces to discuss educational reform.  These teachers have also shaped my philosophy of learning and are amazing role models.  Whether the discussion centered around iPods or wikis, 21st century skills or backchanneling, the goal was the same.  Each presenter tackled the question: How can educators tap into the power of a child's mind and help them reach their potential to better prepare them to meet the demands of an ever-changing world? 

Many ideas were exchanged involving ways to effectively integrate technology to promote critical thinking and enhance learning.  Other talks discussed more philisophical topics, like abolishing grades and establishing personal "habitutdes."  Shelly Blake-Plock suggests approaching teaching as a "conversation with students."  In addition to the wonderful presenters, it was exciting to connect with fellow participants and discuss ideas in "real-time."  It was inspiring to witness so many who are truly dedicated to the art of teaching.

As I look back on this experience a week later, I see while much as changed, the important things remain constant and withstand the test of time.  There will always be new tools and gadgets that will surface, as well as, new teaching philosphies.  Educators must never forget the power of a child's mind.  Every child has a voice and every child deserves the opportunity to develop their talents.  We need to use whatever tools necessary to create learning environments, whether virtual or real, that stimulate creativity and foster genuine learning. This goal reamins the same now as it was when my great-aunts began teaching so long ago.  I strongly encourage you to view the archives of the 2010 Reform Symposium.  It was truly thought-provoking and inspiring!