BRIGHT SPOTS

Your weekly source of learner-centered inspiration

Dear Educator,

Research has shown that this part of the year, often called the disillusionment phase, is the hardest part of the year for new teachers. What many don’t realize is that this phase doesn’t go away after your first year of teaching or when you become an administrator (or even an education consultant). 

After six to eight weeks, the newness of the year wears off and we often enter the disillusionment phase with the realization that things are probably not going as smoothly as we want them to. It is not uncommon to question commitment and feel worn down. 

I want to acknowledge that it’s ok to feel this way as a reminder to myself more than anything. This week, I’m highlighting how some educators are leveraging networks to navigate the challenges that we face in education. 

With Gratitude,
Katie

BRIGHT SPOT OF THE WEEK

The Antidote to Exhaustion is Wholeheartedness

Last week I had the opportunity to work with education leaders at Monmouth University in New Jersey. It was day 4 of a lot of rain and at the end of the day, 60 educators chose to come to an evening workshop to learn and collaborate with colleagues from across the region. One educator shared “I had such a hard day that I didn’t know how I would make it, but after a few hours I am leaving rejuvenated and inspired.”

I was reminded of one of my favorite quotes in Crossing the Unknown Seas:

When the days get hard, I have found that connecting with those who lift you up and push you to be better is well worth the investment. Educators are busy with life and work, and, no doubt, our plates are full. But when we connect with others to engage, learn, and grow, we can be filled with a sense of “wholeheartedness.”

The power is in the collective movement of those who are opening classroom doors, working within existing constraints and barriers, and building networks to continuously learn, share, and innovate. I truly believe that we can collectively improve our education system by focusing on what’s possible and working together to make it happen.

Interested in discussing strategies for connection and collaboration between fellow educators in your school or district? Let's connect!

RESOURCE ROUNDUP

Below are some resources to help educators make meaning through connection and collaboration.

LET'S SHARE OUR BRIGHT SPOTS!

How do you actively foster connection in your school or district? 

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