The Day of Reckoning

February 23, 2015

When an educator faces “the reckoning” of his or her career, the measurement tally of impact and success will include the following:

  • names & faces
  • families
  • stories
  • laughter
  • tears
  • inspiration
  • anger
  • disappointment
  • hope
  • exhaustion
  • energy
  • creativity
  • sacrifice
  • community
  • collaboration
  • preparation
  • growth
  • trust
  • meaningful learning
  • relevant resources
  • transcendent pedagogy

It will not include:

  • test scores
  • targeted standards charts
  • labels
  • pacing guides
  • textbooks
  • mandates
  • trends
  • bottom lines
  • political interests

Educators sow the seeds to bear good fruit. They do not plant for the sake of maximizing harvest.