Super Heroes and Self-Knowledge

The way that I interact with and engage my students inside of my classroom models the behavior that I set for my students inside and outside of the classroom. As we work together toward their shared goals, I am aware that all of our communication is focused on helping each student reach his or her personal goals. These goals are not segregated to academics. As I teach my students I am aware that everything that I do has the potential to leave lasting effects. This fundamental awareness keeps me focused. It comes from an understanding that I am a catalyst for change. In time with repeated practice they will believe that they are, too.

Each student in my care knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that I truly value him (or her).  The level that I am able to influence and control the behavior is directly correlated with the amount of trust that each student has in me. Student participation is built on the ideal that we are a team, with one shared vision. Our vision is to bring the very best out of each other in every way possible. This shows in what we do, say, feel, and believe. When we apply this life philosophy into the world that we live in, the reciprocal benefits will be astounding.

Every day brings with it a new chance to make a big impression. Today was a tough one for me at school. We dressed up as Super Heroes, and it was Moms & Muffins Day, too. The kids were excited beyond compare. Somewhere near the end of the day I asked them to tell me how they thought that the day went. They agreed that it had been a GREAT day. (This was no surprise.) Even though we worked through all of the planned lessons, and met each objective adequately, behavior was restless and attention was fragmented. Sugar and Marvel costumes made for a toxic combo. (Note to self: Don't come to school dressed as a Super Hero and expect to have perfect classroom management!)

I asked them each to promise to take ownership for their choices today, and to plan for better behavior tomorrow. One student refused to make the promise. She said,"I don't think that I can do that." I said,"Why not?" She shrugged in a mixture of defiance and self-contempt. I said,"I give second chances...third chances. But, what I don't give others is excuses." The room went silently still. Honestly, I was sort of shocked that I said it out loud. At the close of the day she had written me an apology, and promised to try to make better choices tomorrow. The sincerity in her eyes nearly made us both cry. I know this is a day that we both will remember. Self-knowledge is a life skill that she will benefit from knowing as she makes her way in the world.


Foremost, I hope to teach my students to take the spotlight off of themselves, and reflect their light onto others. Together we will shine more brightly. The world is their stage.