One thing I am frequently made aware of is the fact I am surrounded by experts. Some of my teachers are content experts, who can teach anything to any child. Others are not just experts in their content field, but in a variety of other arenas. What I love to discover is what these folks are passionate about, especially as it relates to learning. In the past couple of weeks, as March has plodded along, I have been introduced to some new ideas by a few more passionate people in my building:
My media specialist (yes, I mention her frequently, but she is SO smart!) is filling my head, and my “inbox” with info on the classroom of the future
http://tinyurl.com/mass-customized-learning
My reading specialist, whose love of teaching reading is infectious, has turned me on to volumes of material about reading strategies. Every day I find a new article in my mailbox. Now we are working on writing a grant for a “Viral Book Flood” (truthfully, I can’t take much credit!). In her world, every child gets a book and wants to read it, because she understands the importance of making it all “relevant”. This is something that was recently left for my perusal.
http://tinyurl.com/reading-toolbox
http://tinyurl.com/blog-on-reading
I have been so “reeled in” by her enthusiasm, I am joining her, and a small group of my English teachers, at the Richmond Area Reading Council event tonight.
http://tinyurl.com/reading-council
My 11th grade honors English teacher, who wants to help her kids broaden their horizons, asked for help in opening some technology “doors”. I have to admit, making things happen for my teachers and students is a great feeling. It seemed as though I was trying to move mountains, but these students are now Skyping with students in the UK. These kids are sharing their thoughts on common topics and literature, while learning about cultural differences in the process. Over Spring Break, a small contingency will be traveling to London to meet up with their newly found friends and see things for themselves.
