"Less" is Really More

In the Gray Dawn

This lovely prose from Mary Oliver's 
Evidence reminds us of
beauty that is ours to savor.

  This day after Thanksgiving 

I encountered a lone string of

geese flying west in the gray dawn.  

The honking above me was

faint and the winds so powerful. 

Yet the flock seemed to move

effortlessly ahead, and their cries  

echoed long after they disappeared.

Courage and memories that bring 

simple truths to us are often like that.

Beautiful acts of strength and 

persistence, unforgettable yet humble.

Take on That Role

Read/Write Every Day

Developing Student Strengths

Sir Ken Robinson in his essay "The Teacher You Want to Be" spoke to the unfortunate reality of education which exclusively emphasizes academics, while ignoring strengths that make children unique and successful.  


What about musical, athletic, poetic, and kinesthetic talents?  Ignoring a pupil's interests and not providing them with opportunities cooperatively engage with others is short-sighted.  Let us continue offering kids chances to engage in real-world scenarios, alongside peers and adults.  They deserve to "flex the muscles of discovery" during their school day.


How else can learners develop discipline, empathy, and pride for accomplishments they create?  What better place to safely practice and hone skills of self-control and creativity, than within the walls of a familiar building, with people they can trust.  

 

Let's Create!

We've So Much to Be Thankful For

The seasons do wax and wane, bringing with them an ever changing repertoire.  If we pay attention to each rich, solemn, funny, or stirring melody it's a very wise thing to do.  What you accomplish is an understanding of the truly important lessons of life.  Connect with others along the way and those lessons become a roadmap of sorts, a guide.

Robin LeGrand had her roadmap handy at every moment.  Without a doubt she was a guide with immeasurable talent, wit, and a smile that lit up the room.  Music was just one of her passions and she shared it with authority and grace. 

Each and every student she encountered was important.  Her charges all had potential.  What Robin brought to her classes was an opportunity to have fun, learn something new, and acquire skills alongside others who shared a common bond.  What could be more perfect?  So, so many young people benefited from her unwavering commitment to nurture musical self-expression. 

At the start of the school year, I found her giggling with fifth graders while they imitated frogs, jumping off of imaginary lily pads.  "I taught this to them when they were in first grade, years ago.  But they remember it and still want to sing it."  She turned back to the organ and continued playing the music, to the obvious delight of her charges until every one had a chance to "leap" and sing a particular verse. 

As fall deepens into winter, one could walk down the hallways of Parkside Elementary School and savor the aroma of fresh biscuits or big vats of simmering spaghetti sauce.  Meanwhile in the nearby music room were the sounds of Robin teaching and rehearsing holiday tunes.  She arranged for transportation to local nursing homes and stores out in the community, where children would proudly carol, sharing songs of the holiday season.  Nurturing talent, guiding children.....isn't that what love is all about? 

Joy and learning were the key destinations on Robin's roadmap.  Thank you dear, we will carry on in your spirit of hope and possibility.