Finish Strong

Finish the Year Strong

“Finish Strong!” This phrase is used in so many fields and disciplines, but it all means the same thing, Even though you are tired, you have worked hard, do not let up when you are so close to the end. Do not “coast” to the finish line. We only have our students for a limited time, about 187 days. We ONLY have 187 days to make an impact on their lives. The spring can be overwhelming with all the events that happen this time of year but remember every minute we have with our kids should be intentional. Use the time to help them grow as much as possible; to reach and exceed every goal they have set themselves, to help them on the path to life-long learning.

I have said it before, and I will say it again, “the teacher matters!” The way we finish the school year sets the tone for the students for summer--whether they read or not, and sets the tone for the next school year--do they already have in mind that school is always important. I am not sure about you, when a student would ask me if they missed anything when they were absent, I would be offended. I still get offended if someone asks this question when he or she misses a meeting. “Of Course you missed something, important somethings.” We want our students with us to the last day because we plan important, vital, engaging, relevant lessons that they need to have!

Many of us are already making plans for next year, many of us have so many ideas it makes us excited, but do not forget we still have lots of days this year we can make an impact. When you are looking at your lessons, are you excited to teach them? If not, what can be done about that? We often joke that we have to “entertain” the students, but the truth is we need to engage them. No one wants to be in a place they are bored! What can we do to personalize lessons, to engage the whole child, to utilize the idea of anywhere anytime learning?

I am blessed to get to work with one of the most talented group of educators I have ever seen. The amount of knowledge, passion, and innovation is incredible; it is contagious! Be the teacher you wanted when you were in school. Be the teacher you want your child to have. Be the teacher that reaches their students! Leave them wanting more.