upon returning from ncte.

I made an entry in my writer’s notebook called:  Some thoughts WHIRLING in my mind.  Here’s a list of 20 pieces of thinking whirling around my mind.  This is my effort to begin capturing and processing my raw thinking.

1. Our thinking must continue to grow, change, evolve.
2. We should not be using the exact same materials and ideas next year as this year.
3. We must teach into what students almost know, but not quite.
4. Our role is not just to have students apply knowledge, but to help them acquire new knowledge.
5. Caring, kindness, love matter.
6. Students should drive the curriculum, not the other way around:  The curriculum shouldn’t drive the teacher.
7. Thinking evolves. 
8. Technology is crucial and should be used to solve authentic problems in the classroom.
9. We must be proactive not to fall into the achievement trap.
10. Where do our eager, imaginative, first graders go?
11. Kindergarten teachers all the way up to 12th grade teachers have the same fear.
12. Something is dreadfully wrong if our teaching looks the same in  August as it does in June.
13. We should value the literacy they are coming to us with and give them the literacy they need.
14. Teachers need to make an effort to make visible what is often invisible.
15. Reading the same text shouldn’t be the commonality.  The commonality is sharing unique reading experiences.
16. Many of our writing workshops are killing choice:  “Let’s not have freedom today.”
17. Slow down and determine what you really care about.
18. You can do things for meaning or you can make meaningful things.
19. You can’t inspire someone to become something you’re not.
20. Risk = Growth.