It seems like another side effect of COVID-19 is a time warp of sorts. As educators, we often experience this foggy "what day is it?" feeling during winter break and summer, but this - this has been something entirely different. Especially for those of us working remotely. Things I've learned:
That last one....y'all, think about the students. For some of them, THAT is why they look forward to school. I was that kid. This weighs heavily on my teacher heart right now. I see some teachers facing that same struggle as they wrestle to balance leadership expectations (which vary greatly from school to school) and what they know their students are facing at home when creating lessons for students and providing feedback and encouragement. I see some that are more focused on teaching their content than student well-being....even though their words/emails indicate otherwise. They are grade, assignments, and attendance driven, even though the capability to complete online work varies greatly. From working more (caring for siblings, working extra shifts at their jobs to help their family eat and pay bills), lack of access to suitable technology and Internet to meet the teacher expectations, or even special educational needs - not every student CAN work at the same level or pace. If we are grading now, we are grading privilege. In secondary environments, sometimes those two types of teachers teach the same kids. Ugh. I also believe that this longest month ever has given us much to reflect on as we create the new vision for what school means moving forward. What matters most in your idea of what "new school" needs to have?
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AuthorJeannie Timken Archives
March 2023
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