Flat World?

What do you see as the greatest challenge facing the field of education, your state, and your school site in properly preparing for the 'flat world'? 

I don't see the world as flat. If I did I would render myself hopeless, and just be satisfied with the status quo. I have an opportunity to make an impact each and every day. No matter how seeming insignificant that triumph may look to others. I know that I have reached out and dug deep to make the difference to at least one student.

Over time, the ripple effect will be felt. I have faith that I am here to do something meaningful. It's isn't about me, but what I get in return fills me up and keeps me going. This is not to say that I don't get tired. I do. Some days I am exhausted and wonder what the future hold for these kids who would be lost in the shuffle if not for the minority out here who really, really care. Is the world flat to them? Maybe. Where would they be without a leader to be their advocate and carve out a plan?

The saying, "You're makin' a silk purse out of a sow's ear," was one that I often heard growing up. I never really thought about it much. It's just the right thing to do. It still is. When we make the most of what we've got we are better for it. More importantly, so are the causes and people that we support.

I'm not too worried about MAP scores, or the changes in education, or in society for that matter. I have made a conscious choice with my eyes wide open to make a difference, every day. Maybe then, the world will no longer be flat. It never was to me anyway. When we dig deep, and stand united, we can promote the changes that our collective heart desires. I believe this is true. Do you?

As we merge toward CCSS (Common Core State Standards) we will have more unity. With more unity will come more impact. Together we can make it happen. None of us is smarter than all of us.
Together we have the strength to reach the goals that we have for our students, and individually, so long as we stay focused and remain true to our beliefs.



~Diana

What's Your Secret Sauce?

As educators we have a choice to enrich each other as we create momentum in educational reform. We can sit silently pitting ourselves against each other as we work our way through the days and months that add up to another year, or we can actively build cohesion toward a shared vision. It's all in how you look at it. What is the catalyst to create an environment that nourishes the growth of the individual and the entire organization? Is it in you? What's your "secret sauce"?

We plan tirelessly for what we believe the future of education looks like. Do we see and feel the benefits of the mantra "United we stand, divided we fall"?  This mindset will insure momentum in reaching the goals that we are all striving to meet. It will build community amongst colleagues and districts; but I dare ask how many of us are actually practicing our craft with this in mind? Depending on the culture and players of each particular school, this point of view will thrive; or hope will die a painfully slow and meaningless death. How do we cultivate hope as we wade through the tides of change? Did we see the storm coming? When national test score sit at record low, we need to take a long, hard, look in the mirror and ask ourselves individually and collectively: What can I do to make a difference to one student, today? None of us began our journeys as teachers looking for the easy answers. In fact, we spend the better part of our days coaching others to look deeper and stretch higher. It seems apparent that we need to ask the same of ourselves, and support those same strengths within our support colleagues.

When all participants are involved collective responsibility is reflected in roles and actions. Deciding who will do what is where the confusion often rears it not-so-pretty head. Knowing our individual strengths is only the beginning. Timing IS everything. Knowing how to position ourselves on the playing field is a developed skill that some never seem to grow. Therein lies the bug in th proverbial ointment. For example, if two teachers are equally qualified for the same, or similar, role who will be assigned the responsibilities of that chosen role? The one who jumps in at the right time is who will make it happen.

Taking proactive measures, investing time and energy, without being asked to, is where the job (usually) lands. It is by looking at the organizational whole, and searching ourselves for answers to the age old question: "How can I best serve this 'family' using my skills, experience, and passion to their fullest potential?" This is the secret sauce. You are the catalyst.

I am looking forward to your thoughts about this. What's your secret sauce?


~Diana

Passion, People, and Purpose

 

As my passion for teaching grows, so does my thirst for knowledge.

My professional background includes nearly two decades working as an advertising/design Art Director. I am currently working as an artist-contractor for the City of Carlsbad, CA, and have been since 2003. I went into teaching as a second career five years ago. I believe that I am extremely fortunate to be teaching full-time at the same charter school where I began home-schooling my son over a decade ago. Today, I am the second grade teacher of record and the Arts Integration Specialist. Just as I am evolving, so is the dynamic field of education.

I am committed to excellence. My personal expectations are layered and complex. Pursing my master’s degree at University of Phoenix will positively empower me to impact my community, my school culture, and the students who I serve. As a lifelong learner, I continually enrich my education. I look forward to implementing the leadership skills that I will learn throughout this innovative and exciting Master's program. 

I look forward to the collaboration and growth that lies ahead for us all. I look forward to getting to know each of you, and to learning with you.

Diana Stein 

OCTOBER 2013