Setting Goals

We are about to embark on the start of a new year. One that will hold a lot of promises and opportunities to practice our craft. If we are to maximize on these opportunities we must first have a plan. 

When planning to take a trip we are cognizant of each minute detail so as ensure that there is no confusion or unwanted stress. The same is true if we are traveling to an unknown territory. We are armed with maps and other paraphernalia to guarantee that we reach our destination safely.

Similarly, let us use this time to carefully plan by setting goals that will help us to continue make a difference in the lives of the students with whom we are entrusted. 

May you have a year filled with an overflow of love, peace, and most of all personal and professional growth.

                                   
Petreno

It's All About Giving!

We live in a fast paced world which thrives on immediate results. Information can be transmitted in mere seconds and results are expected in a similar manner. In most cases the needs of people who are involved in the process are often forgotten!

It is indeed a harsh realization. The people who are instrumental in making things happen despite hardships and challenges are overlooked and the focus becomes increased productivity, accountability, and results. 

This is no different in the schools! Teachers are demanded to give more time and effort to their craft without the proper supports. They may also work in situations where their creativity is stifled and there is no hope for true professional development. However, they are and will be held accountable! Ultimately this leads to frustration, anger, teacher burnout, and low morale which will significantly impact success.

How can we strive to change this?

The answer lies in the way we treat and value people. It is imperative that people's needs are considered when decisions are made that will affect the work that they are expected to do. It's all about GIVING!

In creating an atmosphere of giving and relationships based on trust and respect we will realize the magically powers we possess in transforming our circumstances and realizing not only our common goals but those personal as well. It is in the giving that we receive.

As we prepare for this holiday season let us remember that It's All About Giving!

Petreno

How Can We Foster Genuine Parental Involvement?

It is often said that the parent is often a child's first teacher. If this is the case, how do we effectively engage them in the teaching/learning process that takes place within the confines of the classroom? Is it enough just to contact parents when their child is being "bad"? Or should it be standard protocol to always involve parents in all aspects of schooling? How can we truly nurture a genuine relationship with parents?

The level of parental involvement varies from school to school as well as at the elementary and high school levels. Parents eager to see their children succeed will take on active roles whether at the elementary or high school level.  How can the schools capitalize on this to promote parental involvement? What about those parents who are perceived as not being interested in their child's welfare?

Does the answer lie in the manner in which the school communicates with its parents? Further, do the parents feel welcomed and are confident that there will be someone available to listen and address their concerns? Are schools really honest about genuinely fostering parental involvement?

It is interesting to note that parent teachers' conferences are often stressful for teachers. Why is this often the case? Is it possible that if there is consistent and timely communication with the home the added stress of meeting with parents can be eliminated? 

In my estimation, we have to work together as a school community to create an atmosphere that truly welcomes parental involvement. Talking about and creating the necessary conditions for parent engagement will be a challenge but is imperative for academic success.

How does your school engage parents? Please share.

Have a Great Week!

Petreno

Where Are We Now?

Wasn't it just yesterday we were preparing for the beginning of the new school year? Now we are in the final days before the end of this year. Where did the time go? Are we achieving our goals? How are we doing?

A new year is fast approaching. At this time it is typical for us to reflect then begin to plan for the new year. On Friday, our "students at risk" team met to evaluate a recently implemented program. It was interesting to note how sometimes we get caught up in paperwork, routines, and procedures that we fail to see and address the real issues. As I sat in the meeting it became apparent that if we are to move these students it will require more than "business as usual". 

Prior to this meeting there was a student conference for this target group. During the conference there was a common consensus that the adults in the building were uncaring. For me this spoke volumes. It explained why there were more students attending particular classes than others as well as the warm and inviting atmosphere that is encountered on entering these classrooms. To further emphasize the necessity of a strong psychosocial environment, one student who is notorious for skipping school and cutting classes expressed his gratitude to a supervising assistant principal (who had taken the time to assist him) for caring enough to help him. This brought tears to our eyes.

It is therefore imperative that we get to know our students and their circumstances, provide opportunities for building trust, and to be willing to work with them through their situations without being judgmental. It requires us to win the hearts and minds of the students. In nurturing a caring and supportive environment built on trust miracles can happen.

Where are you now and what are your next steps?

Have a Fabulous Week!

Petreno