Future of Learning

When I taught, I envisioned the role of the teacher as a facilitator of learning. I never thought of myself as a "teacher," someone doing the teaching. I focused more on the students' "learning."

I have a collection of student work from my days in the classroom. I don't know why I kept it, but I'm a pack rat, so I guess that would explain everything (else) in my storeroom, as well. The point I set out to make, though, is I'm still amazed at the quality of some of my students' papers. Many students wrote far better than they thought they could. And some students — perhaps those considered "smart" — often pushed themselves further than even they thought capable. I guess I suggested to everyone in my classes, "Whatever you believe possible, you can achieve."

Some things I believe about teaching, learning, and education in general:

• All teachers are leaders
• All students can achieve success — it may be relative to all kids
• Students will achieve at the level the teacher sets for them
• Education truly touches the future
• Not everyone is cut out to be a teacher

I have worked with many different teachers and leaders this school year. Things are changing, and rapidly. It's great when you work with people who have kids' best interests in mind. A motto we have followed this year is, "What's best for kids."

Well, what's best?