My questions will mainly focus on the first section in the book Enthusiasm.
I truly enjoyed reading this part and pictured different staff members as Ron Clark gave specific examples of things he has done in his classroom. I am going to list a few questions and do not expect you to respond to them all, but choose a few and respond to them.
Before I list the questions I want to say that I see lots of enthusiasm in our district and building. With that being said, we also know that all days are not great for everyone. I can think of days when I was feeling stressed and the positive comments and enthusiasm from someone else really helped to make my day better. Many times my day gets better just by watching people teach. The energy and enthusiasm in the classrooms is always enough to make anyone feel better. As OAA test time gets closer, it is easy to let the stress level rise and take over how you are feeling. Hopefully these questions will help you have some new ideas on how to deal with that stress and stay positive along with give Dave and I ideas on how to help keep the enthusiasm going.
1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. You don't have to give names, just the other details.
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. Once again, no names needed, just the details.
1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteI try to wake up each morning with the attitude that it’s a new day and a chance to start over.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. You don't have to give names, just the other details.
I can’t think of a specific example but just taking a few minutes here and there to share good and bad stories with each other. The stories of success keep me going, hoping that I will see success and the bad stories keep me going by knowing that things could be worse at times!
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
Just keep up recognizing students. It’s funny how a home-made sticker can bring so much inspiration. I have seen the kids wear their stickers very proudly! Taking time to place it somewhere on them that everyone can see it!
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. Once again, no names needed, just the details.
I was genuinely shocked when one child answered me correctly during class when I called on her and I got so excited I started jumping up and down and yelling. The kids laughed and got very excited. I started doing this each time they got an answer right (even attempted a cartwheel at one point…it was ugly!) and they all started participating more instantly. They each wanted the chance to get me excited!
Megan I could not agree with you more on each part. I love the fact that you showed the students enthusiasm when they got answer correct. We dont' realize it but this does make such a difference to the students. Us just being silly when showing excitement shows the students that we do care and we are proud of them.
ReplyDeleteVickie's Question - Week #1
ReplyDeleteMy questions will mainly focus on the first section in the book Enthusiasm.
I truly enjoyed reading this part and pictured different staff members as Ron Clark gave specific examples of things he has done in his classroom. I am going to list a few questions and do not expect you to respond to them all, but choose a few and respond to them.
Before I list the questions I want to say that I see lots of enthusiasm in our district and building. With that being said, we also know that all days are not great for everyone. I can think of days when I was feeling stressed and the positive comments and enthusiasm from someone else really helped to make my day better. Many times my day gets better just by watching people teach. The energy and enthusiasm in the classrooms is always enough to make anyone feel better. As OAA test time gets closer, it is easy to let the stress level rise and take over how you are feeling. Hopefully these questions will help you have some new ideas on how to deal with that stress and stay positive along with give Dave and I ideas on how to help keep the enthusiasm going.
1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
I keep my self together by starting out each day fresh. If I had a horrible day, I don't believe that my day is going to be the same the next day. I put a smile on my face and bring in fresh new ideas to help myself and the students have fun and enjoy learning.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. You don't have to give names, just the other details.
I can remember a time that I was just at my wits in with a students and with school work with my masters it was all just a stressful situation. I talked with one of my other teachers and her just telling me that she loved what I had done with the students the previous day and she could see a difference in the behavior of the student who was being bad that day. This just allowed me to smile and realize that even though that day was going bad, things are not as bad as they seem. I just always think of the good times I have with my students and this is what makes me enjoy teacher and bring that enjoyment to the students.
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
I have been in many different school districts and the thing I love the most about North Union is that they do a great job of motivating the teachers as well as the students. I love the idea of giving the students notice in the morning of their accomplishments. So enjoy this so much, I have students asking me Ms. Smith did you hear my name and I give them a high five and say yes I did way to go. Also the motivation with the teachers is wonderful. I think that you two know your teachers and the time and effort they put it to their job. Just saying good morning or stopping in their room during the day, shows them that you care.
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. Once again, no names needed, just the details.
I try as much as possible to be enthusiastic when teaching a lesson. During my student teaching I had the lower math group and they just were not getting the lesson, and I could tell that they were getting fraustrated. So I stopped and we came together as a group and used other materials to help us work out the problem. When the one little girl finally figured it out you could just see the light bulb go off, so started smiling, jumping up and down and she got the answer right. I was so proud that I jumped up and yelled with her. All the other students were so motivated that they tried even harder to complete the problem, and figured it out on their own, all because of one little girls enthusiam.
1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going? I love teaching and watching students get excited about their new learning! However, I can’t deny that one of my biggest challenges in teaching the same Social Studies concept 5 times a day, is keeping the same enthusiasm as the first time I taught it! Because I truly enjoy learning new things or trying new ideas in the classroom, I can’t help but model for my students the excitement/passion of learning. In order to keep this going by my 5th period, I have to make a conscious effort to look at each class as a group of individuals who think differently and respond differently and then feed off of that so that each lesson is a little different and more exciting. Sorry, no cartwheel stories, but go Meagan!!! That is awesome!
ReplyDelete3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going? I think you are doing a fabulous job of showing kids that we care about them and their learning. The announcements in the morning acknowledging them are great! I actually didn’t think my 5th graders were paying that much attention until one pointed out that no 5th grader has had their name mentioned. Once they were announced for learning their 50 states and went to the office, I never imagined how proudly they would wear their sticker! Ideas like this really are working!
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. I can think of a 5th grader this year that completed little homework, didn’t want to work in class, and showed absolutely no interest in school. When I talked to him about how smart I thought he was and what great things he could do, he tried a little harder. Gradually his attitude changed and he started getting an A! All of a sudden he would ask me what he got on his test as soon as he took it and would share how he did with others. This was very unlike his personality.
From Cheryl Skeins- Moved 1/10/11
ReplyDeleteI try to inspire the kids I see and remember the quote "one caring adult". If I can put a smile on just one child every day then I feel I have made a difference. I enjoy saying good morning to the kids and giving them high fives in the morning as they are coming in. I think this gets them excited about coming in and shows we are excited to have them here.
I try and make the kids that are hurt feel better by making them laugh or hugging them- depending on the child. To see their faces light up and feel better means the world to me.
There are many times we have kids in the office because they refuse to do their work. We (the office) help and encourage those kids to do their work and show them that they can do it. Some of these kids do work they may not have been able to do with out that extra help and to see the accomplish this is amazing. They actually get excited to show us what they have finished and accomplished. We get just as excited as they are.
One way I’m able to keep my enthusiasm going is by attending engaging professional development events and doing things like this book study. Enthusiasm is contagious, so when I read Ron Clark’s books I’m able to rekindle the excitement I remember having on the first day of my first year in the classroom. I can also keep my enthusiasm going by blocking out the “nay-sayers” who may or may not realize that they’re putting a damper on the good ideas you have. I know we’ve been working on making the fun things we’re doing in our classrooms known by putting it on the website for all to see. I think this is a great way to keep us enthusiastic about teaching. It feels good to see pictures of your own kids on the website, but it’s even better to see the great things other teachers are doing in order to keep us motivated and excited about new ways of teaching.
ReplyDelete1. How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteI have a popcorn party after each book we read for students that finish their reading log. The 1st time they don't remember the reward is coming. But after they have attended once they really work hard on the log for future books.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. You don't have to give names, just the other details.
The 5th grade team have really made me feel welcome and appreciated. They are a pleasure to work with. This has made every day better!!!
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
I really like giving out rewards but it gets so expensive. I tried to get a BEWT grant for rewards but they turned it down. It would be GREAT if there were some funds available for rewards. (Maybe there are and I just don't know about it)
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child.
Usually a child is unmotivated because he/she doesn't understand the material. I try to help the student understand it and when they see they can do it and get positive feedback they work harder.
Thanks Linda! We LOVE working with you too!! The way we communicate with each other at 5th grade-about teaching the students we all "share" makes a difference. Knowing we can count on each other, motivate and encourage each other, makes a difference in what we do in the classroom. I have gotten emails from team members that are inspiring and motivating too! Loving the people you work with and the place in which you work, becomes very evident in the classroom. I am happy to be here each day!
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure I DO keep my enthusiasm going, but I try most of the time! :) Each day is a new beginning and just because there was a problem with a particular student or a behavior issue one day, doesn't mean it will be the same the next day.
ReplyDeleteI am sure that enthusiasm is contagious. I remember a long time ago I was at a training session about how to sell a brand of cosmetics and I remember the trainer saying that if you are excited about what you are selling and show it, your buying audience will become excited by your enthusiasm. If we are enthusiastic about our teaching, our students will certainly (hopefully) catch our excitement and it will become more real for them.
I think a positive attitude and a smile can mean a great deal to a child. Just saying, "I know you can do it" gives them a reason to try and more confidence that maybe they really can!
How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteEvery day is a gift. I believe every child is an amazing wonderment. Every quality moment spent with a child is what motivates me and keeps my enthusiasm going. I love to see them learn and discover. Everyone has a special gift so I focus on what I can do and stop focusing on what I have difficulty with. I show students how to believe in what they can accomplish. Just believe and the rest will come. Eight years ago I had a student who was unmotivated, didn't believe in their self, whined all the time for attention. The mother wanted to retain the child. This student is now a straight A student and on their way to college next year. Every day since sixth grade I have received a single rose at the end of each grading period with a copy of the grade card and a note from that student thanking me for all that I did. The student was never retained, went on, believed in accomplishments and proved abilities beyond all, is now a senior. Wow! I get chills every time a rose shows up in my room. Enthusiasm is surrounded by us everyday. Watch a child for five minutes.
I have found being patient with a child helps them to realize that some one really cares. Listening to them and guiding them. Everyone has the capacity to overachieve. Saying I can't means I won't try. In my class I can't is not a word. American ends in I can. So we all can.
What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
ReplyDeleteBeside having a feature show case for teachers I would like to see a featured show case for students too. The students that struggle need to feel some type of accomplishments as well. We need to make them feel worthy or they become defeated. Showing wildcat pride. Display a banner each week of students names who were caught doing something that showed the wildcat way. Really lived up to the Wildcat pledge. They can also get a sticker and announced each morning. Make a goal to see how many names can be posted on a banner displayed in the cafeteria. If the goal is met maybe Dave or you can do something special for those students.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better.
ReplyDeleteI have to go along with Linda and Brooke on this one. Working on the 5th grade and the North Union Elementary teams is a great way to do this job! I enjoy the little things that Danae does, a cute note on a tiny pack of tissues, a hula snowman statue, the little things that make me laugh. It has been pretty stressful for me not having her at school during her maternity leave and my team has offered to help when I am stressed, sent kind emails reminding me that I am supported, little things like that. Those can sure change an outlook and put some enthusiasm back into my day! Each day is a new chance to touch a child's life! We have to make the best of it! I was convicted during the reading because some days lately I have not been very enthusiastic by the end of the day when I know that the last group is coming and they are tired and I am running out of patience with the behaviors in that class. I have to remember that we are all in this together!
What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
I think the Wildcat Way is a great way to start out our days! I went back over our rules at the beginning of the 2nd nine weeks to remind our kids how they are expected to treat each other and behave. I knew that things had deteriorated a bit in December, as usual, so I went over each chunk of the Wildcat Way pledge last week. Some of the kids had started laughing at others, using some foul language, making fun of others, etc. We went through the part that says, "I will hold myself and everyone else to these standards." I told them that they really needed to improve that part of the pledge. When someone says something nasty, they need to say,"That was nasty and you should not talk like that." Then walk away and DON'T REPEAT IT! We defined gossip and hurt in the dictionary. We took a look at ourselves and how we are treating others. I have seen a difference in just one week with how they are treating each other. I told them so today. That is my soapbox!
Well, I think that the stickers have been pretty cool, even in the fifth grade. Sometimes I think that they will see something as hoaky (sp?) and that don't at all! They were really proud that "Mr. Harmon put it on me!" and that it wasn't just "given" to them. I was pretty surprised that it had that much impact! I do enjoy hearing the kids' names for things on the announcements. I know it takes a little longer, but sometimes we see them in the halls and can recognize that and build them up during the day.
I do like Nancy's idea of the feature showcase for some of the kids too! I would put Morgan in! She got an 18/18 on her spelling test last week and I think that might be the first one she passed with higher than a C all year! Bryan aced it too! He hasn't done much of ANYthing lately! So, you will hear them on the announcements this week too, but I showcase in the front when we run out of staff would be fun!
Something new I tried was a compliments board. I told the kids they could use my pretty colored paper if they wanted to write someone up on my board for doing a kindness. They were excited to write "Dalton helped me pick up my books in the hall." "I got stuck in the bathroom stall and Shelby helped me get out." They really got into it! My board was covered in 3 days! Now, if I could get them excited about turning in assignments! (ho hum!)
Erica, I have to say that reading the Ron Clark book also makes me think of new ways to bring excitment into the classroom. As I read this book I think of all the new things I can do to bring a smile to a students face, and even the students who just drives to crazy making them feel as though you care brings a smile to their face. I have not had my first day of my first year in my own classroom. But I know my first day here I just could not stop smiling I was so excited for the adventure of meeting the teachers and working with the children. I still love it today. The kids make it all the worth while to come everyday with excitment!!
ReplyDelete1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going? I try to keep my enthusiasm going by starting each day with a fresh, open mind. I also try to "feed" off of my students’ enthusiasm and the enthusiasm of the teachers that I work with! Some days when I am feeling down, one positive interaction with another child or adult is able to bring me right back up!
ReplyDelete2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- I can think of quite a few times last year where I was feeling very sick because of the pregnancy. I was feeling very down and another teacher was able to help me completely turn my attitude around. She often tells me positive things that our students on IEP's are doing well on! Thinking about these kids feeling successful has helped turn my attitude around so many times!
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going? I think that you and Dave are doing a great job. I, along with many others, LOVE that the kids are announced in the mornings for the great things they are doing. I have seen a huge increase in enthusiasm building wide.
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. I can think of a specific example this week. I had an instance where a general education student broke down during MAP testing. I took him out in the hallway, and we talked. I explained to him that the reason his questions were getting harder was because he is getting a lot of answers right and because of that, the test gets more and more difficult. I used enthusiasm to explain how smart he is, and I told him that if the test is challenging him, then that is a good thing! He was able to gather his emotions, finish his test, and received a good store. It felt very good to be able to help him see the positive side of (what to him was) a stressful situation.
- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteI know that I have the chance to make a child's day happier if I tell them that I am glad to see them or give smiles and hugs to former students and let them know I care...that motivates me to do my best for my students. I often think about how teachers treat my son and daughter (Benjamin and Breanna) and how I want them to be treated in school. It makes me think that if the students in my classroom were my own children, I do my very best for them each day. I want my children to have teachers who are excited to learn, so I try to give that attitude of learning to my own class of kids. They deserve the best from us...we are sometimes the only good thing in their life. That moves me to do my best for them.
How to keep it going in the building? I love that you give us opportunities to wear jeans. I know that is silly, but it puts me in a good mood and makes me feel comfortable and less stressed for some reason? I think, for the most part, we are a pretty good group of teachers and staff that helps pick each other up if someone is down. We do care about each other and we do a pretty good job of helping each other along the way. I know that having someone to talk to who understands helps to lift me up and helps me to face challenges of the day.
I had issues posting the last question so I am trying again....If I could suggest a great place to take kids for a great experience that is close and I think very cool is the Ohio Caverns. They have fixed it up and it was a great tour, at least about 4-5 years ago. My kids and I enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteEnthusiasm is Contagious. I have to agree 100% with that. I really appreciate the way in which we are encouraged and supported to take risks and try new things here. For the after school tutoring, I'm working with 3 other staff members & 18 students. Last week we rotated the students through 4 fifteen minute stations. It made the time go really fast, and the students stayed engaged, but I didn't feel like I covered my material thoroughly enough. However, the enthusiasm of my colleagues bolstered my spirit & I'm ready to plan for another session.
ReplyDeleteHow do I keep my enthusiasm going? I guess by trying to look at situations through the eyes of a student and remembering that what I've been doing for years is new to them.
1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteI try to keep enthusiasm going by always moving from one thing to the next. Keeping them on their toes, so to speak. We also have a class encourager who starts our high fives, claps, and cheers for anyone who participates or challenges themselves. I think challenging my students to set high goals and expectations creates enthusiasm for learning.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. You don't have to give names, just the other details.
I would say today, I was not feeling the best. My throat hurt,I was achy, and I just cringed when I had to talk. I started off the day teaching a second step lesson. The students were so enthusiastic with their reenactments that I had forgotten all about my sore throat. We had so much fun learning how to calm ourselves that it was difficult to do so:-)
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
I think you are doing a great job keeping the enthusiasm with the students and staff. Recognizing students and staff for their efforts and accomplishments encourages them to accomplish more and set higher goals. Like Debbie said, the students are starting to create their own enthusiasm for their accomplishments and efforts. It isn't as hard to motivate or challenge them when they are already enthusiastic about learning.
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. Once again, no names needed, just the details.
I currently have a student who is very shy. So when he puts himself out there I always try to make a huge deal about his participation. So, when the students see this over joyous lady, all the hands go flying.
In class we are studying the continents so we played an interactive game on the SMART Board to help us memorize their location on a map. The mission is to place each continent in its precise spot in so many seconds. One of my students did not want to attempt this so, I asked if she wanted to challenge me. I went first, then she went. She beat me by 3 seconds and was so proud. The students have been challenging each other everyday during recess for the best times.
If you hear me talking to myself don’t be surprised because I have to indulge in a lot of self talk. Actually I am really hard on myself and am constantly having to encourage me. At the end of each day I try to evaluate what was good and what wasn’t so good and think of what I can do better. By the time I am at school the next morning I am usually anxious to get going again. The first grade team has to put up with me every day, and their enthusiasm and willingness to do what it takes for their students helps me be more enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is contagious and even reading the great ideas and thoughts of others helps me be more enthusiastic.
ReplyDeleteI really think the “office” has been doing a good job in the enthusiasm category. Our students seem more enthusiastic and excited to be at school than I can ever remember. I try to be enthusiastic with my students while staying focused on the learning. I have always said that it is so much easier to get the younger students excited because they believe you when you say “Reading is so…. Cool”,etc. Those of you in the intermediate grades have to be quite talented to do this. I think we can all help unmotivated children become more motivated. It isn’t something you do in one day; it is something you make them believe by your actions day after day. I try to encourage the small accomplishments in simple ways. Just commenting on something they did well and saying something like “That is what good readers do” helps them build confidence and enthusiasm. I love the big things we do to encourage enthusiasm, but the little things we do every day are also very important.
I love Nancy's idea of showcasing successes of students who struggle. We are so quick to recognize those who excell. I think we need to remember that struggling students sometimes try as hard or harder than others. Thanks for thinking of that, Nancy!
ReplyDeleteI really agree with Erica about participating in professional development events, like this book study- it really does help to keep your enthusiasm going. I also love Nancy's idea of showcasing successes of students who struggle. Many times, those students are the students with the lowest self-esteem. So, they tend to need a lot of praise in order to feel successful. Great idea, Nancy!
ReplyDeleteI agree that professional development is helpful. I would like to continue have 4-5 PD opportunities for you each year. If you have suggestions of good books (for book studies next year) let me know. Also let me know of other PD ideas that you have. I try to come up with things that you want but it is always helpful to have suggestions from each of you.
ReplyDelete1. How do you keep your enthusiasm going? It is obvious there are times when it is difficult to be enthusiastic; however, I find them far and few. At least when it comes to working with kids in my art room. I am VERY passionate about what I do and I love sharing that passion with the kids. I want the kids to have a greater appreciation for visual art when they leave this building. To break it down for you… I have 50 minutes a week, 36 classes a year, and a total of 216 chances in an elementary career to make a difference. Of course, that is only when everything falls into play in an ideal situation. If a student is late, absent, or changes schools those numbers dwindle. With that sort of pressure, I do not have time to not be enthusiastic.
ReplyDelete2. Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. Well, for starters, read number one. I am stressed and pressured every day. In order to accomplish all that I would like with kids I need to add 3 more hours to the schedule daily. Just spend a week in my room and you will see there is not one second of time to breath. Therefore, I look to the kids. When the kids enter my door everything changes. Nothing matters except that moment and the time they are in my presence. I am look enough to teach a studio class which allows the students to be constantly engaged (not saying they all are all the time) but watching, hearing, seeing their enthusiasm builds my enthusiasm and makes me want to work harder and harder for them to learn.
3. What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going? Enthusiasm like many things needs to be fostered. One way to do this is specific praise and support. For example, when I am teaching color units I may say to a child their outfit looks really nice, but I follow that with how I like the way the monochromatic colors are creating balance. Specific details. I also feel more enthusiastic when I am being supported in what I want to do or try. Allowing and encouraging risks to be taken shows the person taking the risk is supported and believed in by the person supporting the risk. Really I think that is my big thing, taking risks towards meaningful and purposeful instruction and having the support to do so. Now for kids enthusiasm because that is critical. The building is working in the right direction. I do think it is vital to make sure we are being specific. Dave and Vickie, I think it is crucial you get to know these kids. I had a principal when I was an elementary student whom I loved. He knew my name and interests. He ate lunch with the students and joined us on the playground. I really felt like he cared about me and wanted me to succeed in school. I was absent one time for three days because I had gotten really sick, that was not normal for me. My parents, had called my teacher to make her aware of the situation of course, but the principal called home just to let me know he was thinking about me and he would help me catch up on anything I missed when I got back. As kids, my friends and I wanted to please him. We wanted to do our best because we knew that was what he expected.
4. Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. At the beginning of the year I was really working hard to build my fifth grade students up for some big challenges we are tackling this year. One student, I will call him…. Egor was really down on himself as a fourth grader and I wanted to pull him around. I started pointing out the fantastic work the students completed in the past and I purposely talked about Egor’s art… even naming the child in class. His posture changed immediately and the more I raved the more rays of sunshine shot from his head, well maybe not but I wanted to see who was actually reading all this. Long story short, he is now one of my leaders in his class and is taking on projects to a higher level challenging himself to go above my already extremely high expectations.
ReplyDeleteErica you are so right... PD needs to be meaningful.
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ReplyDelete“How do I keep my enthusiasm going?”
ReplyDeleteI thrive off the energy of the school building and the other teachers. When I walk into the school each day, all of the great things that this district does for the students builds my energy and enthusiasm. This is how my day starts. I keep myself going by trying new things and adventures with the students that I work with. If I am having a tough day, I remind myself why I became a teacher. This tends to get me back to reality of why we do this every day and what will work for the students. If I am not adventurous or enthusiastic about school, why would my class be- That is what I try to keep in mind every day.
An example of contagious enthusiasm:
I was at the end of my student teaching and I was worn out, pressured and stressed. I kept telling myself that I could do this; I just need to finish my last month. I was not feeling the enthusiasm that I had at the beginning of the semester. Then it hit me. I had a student ask me why I wanted to be a teacher. Did I like school? Then the student told me that he loved school and loved being here. He had a smile on his face that truly showed me that he did enjoy school and that was contagious enough to remind me why I was doing this. I was amazed how that moment has stayed with me and it made the rest of the days so much easier.
Keep the enthusiasm going in the building:
I love the idea of calling students names each morning on the announcements. I also think if Dave and Vicki were available, 1 making the announcements and 1 standing at the door of a classroom “of the day” to personally hand out the stickers right there- instant gratification. Another idea is having teachers write names of students on “paw prints” for examples of the wildcat way displayed by students, to hang on the office windows for everyone to see. Whether it was another student helping out another, a class was great at lunch that day, or a student that had great behavior. Whatever it was, the teacher could write the name on a paw print and let the student walk it down to the office to hang on the windows.
I also agree with keeping myself fresh with PD. I know that I constantly want to learn new skills and try out new ideas and there is no better way than to attend seminars and hear fresh ideas.
Enthusiasm inspiring unmotivated children-
I tutor afterschool and I am always trying to keep the students interested after a long day. I have found that if I show that I am excited to be there with them and that I am interested in what they are doing that my enthusiasm shows and keeps them going throughout the time. I also try to keep my energy level going to keep their level high.
I agree with Nancy and Debbie. I love the idea of showcasing the students who do tend to struggle. We do need to show their successes off!
ReplyDeleteI am feeling down and quite tired in the mornings from the chemo. Some mornings it takes everything out of me just to get dressed. I even sometimes moan on the way to school (Heaven forbid!). However as soon as the first student walks through my door my feelings change. My students always are happy to see me and that makes a world of difference for me. Work becomes my happy place to be. My students mean the world to me and they show the same back to me. My kids make the world a brighter place to be especially now in my shoes.
ReplyDeleteEnthusiasm for teaching is so important. I believe it is the key in keeping students motivated for learning. If you are excited about what you are teaching it so easily translates to the students. It helps them be interested in what they are learning. Without enthusiam the classroom is a very boring place to be. i hate to be bored so I don't ever want my students to be bored either. I once had a teacher friend tell me that she didn't like the students in her class. I was horrified by her statement! I decided to ask what my syudents thought and their collective gasp was enough of an answer for me. I'm sure that her students felt her feelings and that they wouldn't respond to her or what she was teaching for that year. She was having all kinds of discipline problems. No wonder! She eas missing the main ingredients of teaching, respect and concern for her students and enthusiasm.
To keep my entusiasm going I have to have something in my day that I am passionate about. For me, it's working with the kids on the musical. I love it! I am having so much fun telling them to "forget what I taught you 4th grade and what you are being told in 5th grade about being fast, fluent readers. I want you to slow down." But the fun we are having carries over to my classroom. I guess it is being able to laugh with my class that keeps us all going.
ReplyDeleteI keep enthusiasm going by keeping my students on their feet. We travel around the room throughout each reading and math group. My kindergarteners love to sing, dance, and chant so I make sure to incorporate that into my plans. I also use as much technology as I can. I have my students talk into the microphones when doing our ABC chant and they love that! I also know that I cannot expect my students to be enthusiastic about learning if I’m not, so I have to set the example.
ReplyDeleteI really feel like announcing the students every morning is really making our students proud of themselves and their classmates. I know my kindergarteners love to hear their names! The more we get to know each other and our students the better we will be at motivating each other. Students will put in more effort if they know someone is counting on them to do their best. It all kind of goes back to the Wildcat Way.
I completely agree with Erica about have PD that excites you. We need to be reminded of all the awesome things we can do as a teacher. I also like the paw print idea that I read about in Ali’s post.
I think it would be really motivating and inspiring if we put Ali's paw print idea to use and by the end of the year each student had their name on a paw print around the school!
ReplyDelete1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteThe students keep me enthusiastic! I love feeding off of their positive energy. Seeing them be successful, overcome obstacles, try their best and feel more confident in themselves as we work together always motivates me.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better.
This year I received some bad news about 10 minutes before school started and the kids came into my room. I tried to pull myself together all the while wishing I could be at home. The bell rang and in came my students. I received my usual Good Mornings, several hugs, and two students had randomly made cards for me. I had enthusiastic questions about what we had planned for that day and funny stories about things that had happened to them the night before. I have to tell you, I am glad I was surrounded my students’ enthusiasm that day, as opposed to being at home. They definitely made my day brighter without them even knowing it…
4- Give an example of when your enthusiasm has helped an unmotivated child. Once again, no names needed, just the details.
I had a student who had a lot of behavior problems in previous grades. He had a poor attitude and acted like he didn’t care about school or what anyone thought about him. I could tell he really did care what others thought about him, but he was using that as a cover. Whenever he would reply in class with a negative comment about a subject area or a lesson, he would expect me to yell at him. Instead I would reply in an extra happy, positive voice. At first, I think he thought I was kind of crazy! ;) But after a while, without any negativity for him to feed off of, he stopped the comments. This student always did his homework, so I would make a big deal about this to the other students. They were not used to positive comments being made about this student, since his name was usually associated with getting in trouble. I also saw that he really paid a lot of attention in science, though he would never say he liked a school subject. I chose him to help me with science experiments. I asked him for his predictions. I practiced science vocabulary with him before tests. Before long, he was doing well in science class. After a couple of good grades in that subject, he started to feel more confident about his abilities. This carried over to other subject areas. I had no behavior problems from him at all. He told me at the end of the year that he wanted to be a scientist when he grew up. It is moments like these, when a student believes that he/she CAN be successful when they didn’t before, that keeps me enthusiastic about my profession.
Jessica, I read your posts and those of the others, I know who you are calling Egor and it fits!! Glad you could get through!
ReplyDeleteHow do I keep my enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteWell, I constantly put myself in the kids' shoes and try to see my lesson through their eyes. If it's not exciting and fun for me, I know it won't be for them, either. My enthusiasm comes from seeing the students excited, engaged, and learning valuable lessons through music.
"Enthusiasm is contagious." Indeed. Little notes/thoughtful things from co-workers and friends in the building is wonderful, and I think we need more of it.
Also, when teachers drop off their class and tell me things students have said, or even just communicate something they did/are doing in their room that could tie into music, I get a renewed sense (burst)of energy (i.e."Vanilla Ice said he just couldn't wait for music today!" or "Eddie Vedor mentioned you're studying Native American music and we're learning about Native Americans in social studies...." )
How could Dave and Vickie keep the enthusiasm going in the building?
Well, first, I see big strides and efforts to improve many areas of our building/district and I think that's a great thing.
I also have to agree with Jessica in her statement about being supported in wanting to take risks, and would like to emphasize the encouraged part. When I am so passionate about something, it's hard when I feel stifled by factors like time, money, or resistence; but, on the flip side, when I feel passionate about something, I will try to make it happen despite any obstacles that may present themselves. Having the involvement and enthusiasm of my administrators would be an encouraging reminder that I am valued and supported.
How do I use enthusiasm to motivate students?
It is truly constant. I don't ever feel a "down" or "relaxed" moment in music; I want the kids to be constantly engaged- be it by singing, dancing, actively listening, playing instruments, conducting, critically thinking, etc.- I only have 50 minutes a week to teach them what they need to learn (less than that if we get a late start, we have an assembly, or something else is scheduled during specials). Almost always, I am singing/dancing/playing instruments/listening/etc. with them; there is NEVER a time in which I am not actively engaged in what they are doing. I believe my involvement shows my enthusiasm. Plus, anyone who knows me knows when there is music on, I must do one of two things- move and sing to it, or turn it off so I can actually listen to what you are saying.
I third what Erica said- PD not only needs to be meaningful, but applicable.
ReplyDeleteHow do you keep enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteBy reading Ron Clark! I love this book and am having so much fun incorporating as much as I can from him into my classroom. Just the other day I was reassessing first grade sight words. Rather than getting stressed over how many some of the kiddos DIDN'T know...I looked at it in a Ron Clark way and looked at how much each individual student has grown since the last time I assessed their sight words. Some students have mastered their first grade list...even my lowest students doubled their score from the last timed I assessed! By making a big deal out of their individual accomplishments and giving them high fives and words of praise, the enthusiasm quickly spreads. I hear them telling their friends about how many they know and I know they are proud of their hard work!!!
Enthusiasm is contagious:
There are good days and bad days no matter who you are or what career path you have chosen. There are days when I need to just talk it out with my colleagues about my frustrations in the classrooms. Just by "getting things off my chest" helps. Usually after this type of discussion I feel empowered again and leave my colleagues room with energy and motivation again. We all need this type of support/motivation/etc. from one another time and time again.
Keep the motivationg going?
You are already doing it! I love the morning announcements. I like the idea of the paw prints around the building. This reminds me of what my old school did. We put stars up on a special bulletin board in the cafeteria. Teachers/parents/community members could fill out stars with student accomplishemnts. The kids were so excited every day at lunch to see the names that had been added to the board.
Hope you all do not mind an "outsider" joining in on your blog. Although I am not at the elementary building I am excited about this opportunity to learn more about Ron Clark's techniques. I am particularly interested in how I might be able to adapt some of his suggestions to use in the high school setting.
ReplyDeleteI try to be enthusiastic in my classes by the way that I establish personal relationships with my students. When I know that they have accomplished something, academically or otherwise, I try to make sure to congratulate them on it.
I also know that some students still enjoy getting stickers when they have achieved a goal. I am considering implementing a new sticker reward system when the new semester starts next week. I am interested to see if it actually still creates enthusiasm in the HS student.
When I am not on top of my game and I am stressed or worse yet depressed there are times that just having an enthusiastic student in class perks me right back up. Attitudes are definitely contagious!
I am really looking forward to the PD opportunity. I will enjoy reading Mr. Clark's book and being able to blog with you all to hear your comments and suggestions.
Thanks for allowing me the opportunity!
I try really hard each day to be excited to see my homeroom and all of my classes and try to keep them motivated and excited about learning. Sometimes this can be hard for me by the time 5th period rolls around as I've taught the same topics over and over. I have noticed that the more excited I am about teaching them a concept the more excited they are about learning it. We have pennants for each period, and I get really excited when the whole class has done their homework. I used to do a cartwheel for each class that did this, but I'm getting older, and Megan mine aren't pretty either, but the kids love to see that you are excited too. Now, this is why we do the pennants. I don't have to do any cartwheels! Each class receives a point every day if everyone does their homework and these points are tallied at the end of the week, and then the class with the most tallies wins. Their pennant is hung in the hallway and I make treats! The second question involved a student. I was feeling quite stressed about getting 125 students to pass a Sciecne test, and a student last year said to me, "Mrs Edgar, you are my favorite Science teacher, and I never really liked Science before and you make it fun!" This student wasn't one of the straight A's motivated students, but this student passed the test, and not with just the bare minimum, but this person scored in the accelerated range! Now, obviously I didn't know that until this summer, but he made me really think about the stress that I put myself through. That day though really helped me! It also helps that I have a great team to work with who is also very supportive!
ReplyDeleteI feel our building is very enthusiastic and there is always something wonderful going on for our kids and the community. THIS IS A PLUS!
How do you keep enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteI do my best to approach every day as a new day with my students! As much as I love being in the classroom, children can be exhausting at times. On those days, it does me good to read inspirational books like this one. I was feeling frustrated last week with the chaotic behavior of the kids. They were very wound up from coming back to school from a long break and immediately going into testing. By the end of the day, I think I could have taught standing on my head and they might not have noticed that I was in the room! As I read this first part of this book, I began to feel much better. It helped me relax, regain my sense of humor and perspective!
Enthusiasm is contagious: My team also helps me keep my enthusiasm. I enjoy sharing ideas and stories with them. Sometimes just a 10 minute conversation of "hey, this is what I am doing", sparks that creative side in you. I think it is important for us to share our ideas and successes with each other. I remember when my team had the Smartboards installed in our rooms. It was comical to see us standing in front of these incredibly expensive boards, saying " I am not touching it, you do it". We were terrified at first that we would break them. Once we had a little training and began playing around with things, we were constantly in and out of each others rooms, sharing discoveries, lessons that we created, etc.! We feed off each others' excitment!
I think it is easy to keep your enthusiasm level high when you love what you do. I can't remember too many days when I came to school not ready for a great day when I was teaching.
ReplyDeleteAt the middle school it was easy to keep the enthusiasm high because of your team. One person may be down but you had three others to keep you going. We spent a lot of time getting to know each other and laughing, that somedays was what kept us going.
Also, when one person was having a difficult time with a student the others could step up and reach out to the student and keep them engaged and motivated.
There are days when enthusiasm is a choice, there are classes where it's harder to be enthusiastic. I think that's why most undergrad programs have a theater class, 'cuz even when you're not feeling it, you have to present yourself as though you are:) A great deal does depend on how one feels about their position, not only in the classroom, but as a professional. I loved working in my previous district, even though I had the toughest kids in my class, because I was able to collaborate with amazing teachers, my superiors respected me and valued my input. There were opportunities to grow outside of my classroom, and opportunities to contribute as well. I was more enthusiastic about my profession because I wasn't confined to the classroom. I miss that now because I am by myself, even though I get out of my classroom and join committees and such, I am still all alone in the PK world, and often my challenges aren't the same and vice versa...it can occasionally cut down on the enthusiasm. That being said however, my PKers my nature are enthusiastic...I mean, 4 year olds are sold out for almost anything and I LOVE it!!! My example of someone whose enthusiasm turned my day around is my friend Henry. I totally adore this kid, pretty quiet, seemingly serious, but a little ornery too. The other day my students were asked to bring in a pillow case with a secret animal in it. We brought our pillow cases to our meeting area and sat in a circle...I explained how we were going to give clues about our secret animal so our friends could guess what it was...we could tell the color, how it felt, where it would live if it were a real animal..etc. This happened to be my morning class, so clues were "It's a Kitty!!!" because we are mostly three:) When we get to Henry I am dying, we are only half done and I am thinking to myself I am about the dumbest person ever for assigning this...then Henry says..."it's white, fluffy, and would live in the North Pole", so I'm thinking polar bear, he takes guesses, no one knows (big shocker, right?) and then I ask, how many legs does it have? "two"...well now I'm stumped too...finally I tell him he's stumped the class and he can show us his animal, he pulls out the Bumble from Rudolph...the best part was his reaction, he laughed so hard...pure joy! I loved it, I even have it in a picture because it was too precious. A Bumble...now that is Henry, clever and a little ornery and one of the reasons I choose enthusiasm every day!
ReplyDelete1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteI try to keep my enthusiasm going by joking around with my students. I feed off of them. Even if I'm having a day where I am not motivated or finding it hard to keep up my enthusiasm, I usually can find a story or something to start a conversation where my kids can build from that. I also try to talk with other teachers and build myself up.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. You don't have to give names, just the other details.
I am struggling to think of anything specific, but there have been several times when other teachers have given me the enthusiasm I've needed to get through the day. There have been topics that I was not thrilled to teach to my students, but of course we have to do it anyway. When talking to other teachers, I can get ideas and feed off their energy. If we all lean on each other and build off each other, that is how enthusiasm is contagious.
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
As far as the enthusiasm with the students, I think the announcements where the students can get stickers if their name is called is really working. My kids love when their names are called and even cheer on when others around our room are called and can hear us clapping for them. As for enthusiasm with the teachers, I think that just giving compliments and acknoledging when someone is doing a good job is the key.
Lots of great ideas on enthuaism! I believe enthuaism is a choice and as educators I also believe it is in our job description! However, as educators it is very easy to lose your enthuasism as the year progresses! I always find attending professional developments a great motivator to bring enthuasism back into your classroom. I also find reading about what other teachers are doing is wonderful way to keep up your enthusaism. Ron Clark is definitly one of those inspiring educators that can lift you up! I think just stepping out and trying new things keeps you excited in your classroom. This makes the kids enthuasitic too. I believe I have to be interested in what I am teaching to the kids and show my care for them to keep thier enthuasism high. Dave and Vickie have worked hard as a team to raise a positive and enthuastic atmosphere in the school. I think by listening and takeing ideas from the staff is one way they have done this.
ReplyDeleteI also know the people you work with closely keep you enthuasitc by having fun (yes even during the school day), talking about what's going on, supporting you when your day is not going well. I think being a team and striving to be a team on whatever grade level you teach is a huge key to keeping yourself, your students, and the school enthuastic!
ReplyDelete1- How do you keep your enthusiasm going?
ReplyDeleteI try to keep my enthusiasm going by having the attitude to always do better. I reflect on how the previous day went and think of ways to make the next day go even better for both my students and myself. I know exactly what Kelly and Brooke are saying about teaching the same thing over 5 times a day, but I look at it as a learning tool. If I'm bored with teaching it by the 5th time then my lesson needs to improve.
2- "Enthusiasm is Contagious"- Give an example of a day that you were feeling down, pressured, stressed, etc. and the enthusiasm of someone else was contagious and helped to make your day better. You don't have to give names, just the other details.
This is the perfect question to ask after having to return to work and leave my son :( I can't be more thankful for the people I work with. They have made my transition so much easier! I am blessed to have had Megan McCalf in my room while I was gone! The enthusiasm she delivered in my classroom has made the transition for the kids so much smoother!
3- What can Dave and I do to keep the enthusiasm in the building going?
I have noticed some positive changes in the students since I have returned! The first time I heard Dave announce the students' name over the loud speaker, I asked the students what that was all about and at once they all started talking. Right away I knew this was something that they all enjoyed and was certainty expressing their enthusiasm! Dave and Vickie has certainly done a great job with reaching out to the students and getting them excited about learning and coming to school. Nancy made a nice suggestion about displaying students as well as the teachers and staff!