Education is a Set of Parameters- How do we Navigate within Them? (136)

Looking at it from above

There is a giant map, full of lines: connecting concepts, curriculum, conduct, control, compassion, collaboration, compulsory, choice. Every aspect of education linked through parameters, set forth by those who make the decisions. Those we never meet, who have created our local framework.

We as teachers, have classroom ownership to some degree. We get to decorate it. But, what we teach, how we teach, when we teach- we are limited by lessons plans, pacing guides and state and national standards. We have paperwork, monitoring, grading, and attendance. But we also have relationships. Those are ours alone, each personal.

I have been a teacher for almost 20 years, and I have heard every complaint you can imagine. Teachers are too restricted, there are too many rules, too much paperwork, we do not have enough time to just teach. I have complained myself numerous times. But ultimately, I follow the rules, bend them a bit, but nonetheless, adhere to their purpose.

Side View

Parameters are important. We are educating future generations and if we only taught what we wanted- we might have a lot of clones of ourselves- but making sure we are providing lessons, on what the majority, of us feel are relevant and purposeful, we are unifying in some way. We are making sure, there is some kind of consistency.

Buzz words- differentiation, SEL, choice, STEM, literacy across curriculum, feedback, formative assessment. The list is endless. These are the personal aspects of education. How teachers integrate them into their classrooms is what keeps every classroom unique.

We may have necessary requirements, but we also have common sense and creativity- in which we use, to design our own personal environments, in which we teach. We have our comfort zones we step out of. We are preparers and innovators. We listen to our students and update, tweak and toss out activities that do not work.

If we are set free within these parameters, how can we navigate within them, when we want so desperately to be independent? How can we manage the day- to-day requirements, but still feel inspired to let loose and have fun? It definitely takes an open-mind and a patient spirit.

The most important thing is to leave your ego at the door. You have to enter your classroom raw and vulnerable. If you build up walls and steer clear of conflict- you will be unhappy most days.

Within the Border

If you step inside, thoughts meandering through the unknown, welcoming it- you will find that you are much more joyful. You have to accept you can not control everything. Students are independent spirits too.

The curriculum, management, and requirements are not going to change. Accept them. Believe that you are bringing positive change, even when most days, no one will acknowledge it, or tell you, you are doing a good job.

Understand that relationships are the most important tool in your toolbox. Not just those with your students and your colleagues, but with custodians, librarians, GT and SPED specialists, para’s, administrators, cafeteria staff, print shop experts, technology specialists and parents. Everyone who has a line on the big map.

You have to accept your role in the landscape and make sure that your frustration and complaining is quiet. That you are not the one in the breakroom, filling the spot with negativity. That you are not standing in the hall, ridiculing other teachers and students because you are tired and at your wits end.

Navigation

In order to navigate the municipality of your school- you have to be prepared to take a hit or two. No matter what you do, there will be students who do not like you. No matter how friendly you are, someone in your building thinks you are overkill. That is something you cannot control, and you need to let it go.

I have been treated disrespectfully, been ridiculed, threatened even. I was manipulated and forced to change schools because I would not tattle on my team. I have heard everything you can imagine. Yet, I do not bring that baggage into my classroom. Students feel negativity- they see eyes rolling, hear a tone in your voice. Stay mindful.

How I navigate is by steering clear of those who wish to bring me down or those who can’t figure out a way, to navigate the parameters laid before us. We chose this profession. Not for the accolades or income- but because we want to make a difference. Bringing negativity into your building is chipping away at your positive impact.

Compass in Hand

The only way we can find focus on what really matters- classroom teaching and student relationships- is by taking ownership of the requirements, our mistakes, and our own ego. Every day will not be wondrous and magical. How could it possibly? Be aware and keep on smiling.

Every time the bell rings and you step inside, eyes all on you- you have a choice. To navigate within the boundaries of our profession warts and all or ignore them. If you choose to navigate, then you will have more freedom to express yourself, design and implement new ideas.

We have all heard the saying, ‘keep your head down and stay under the radar.’ That is not a great way to go through life. Pop your head up- try awesome stuff, get people to notice the amazing things you do and if you have found a way to navigate, within the parameters- they will see you.

The clutter will fall a side and your efforts will be magnified.

You will also feel content and education will be less of a scary place. There will no longer be ‘survival mode’ but ‘creative mode’ and a deep connection with our profession.

Teaching is not easy, nor is it overwhelmingly difficult- where you fall within its parameters, depends on your outlook. Buck the system. Be proactive and innovative. Push the boundaries, but also accept the parameters- because they are what hold, everything together.