Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Actions vs Words

It is a difficult time for the arts in education. In many districts they are under attack. Words about the importance of music, art and theater are wonderful, but actions show much more. 

I have never heard of a district that says the arts are not important, but I have seen many districts that show with their actions that they do not value the arts. At the end of the day (in most districts) specials provide prep time for classroom teachers. When prep time is cut, specials time is cut too.

I understand that districts are under immense pressure to balance their budgets while not receiving funds from their states. This is the perfect time to be honest and to admit that students will be missing out on valuable instruction that specials provide but due to budget concerns it is the only option.
At the end of the day, our actions will always speak louder than our words.  What message do your words send?  What message do your actions send?

Reflections on a Snowy Day

1.  "What is best for kids" is not a mantra. It is a way of life where we truly put kids first when we make all decisions.

2.  Be honest. We all have to make tough decisions and sometimes we have to make sacrifices. Don't sugar coat or only highlight the positives. Let all stake holders know the true ramifications of the decisions.

3.  Enjoy the moment. Life moves by too quickly. Enjoy the hugs,  cuddles, highs and lows. Great times won't last forever and either will the hard times.

4. Live by your principles. What do you stand for? What do you believe in? Live by these guiding principles regardless of how hard things get.

5. Don't apologize for working hard. We all get 24 hours in a day. What are you going to do with your time? Time is a valuable resource. Use it wisely.

6.  Take time to read and listen to books. Strive each day to learn something new and to grow as a person/parent/friend/professional/spouse.

7. You Matter and you are impacting lives. Even if you don't see it, people will remember you for years down the road. They will remember how you made them feel. How do you want to be remembered? Make sure you current lifestyle matches this goal.

8. You are not defined by your grades, test scores or athletic achievements.

9.  Learn to deal with mean people. The world is full of bullies and mean people. It is your choice how much they impact your life. Yes, this is easier said than done.

10. Enjoy Life! We live in a country far better off than much of the world (even with our many problems.) We have clean drinking water, access to public education, access to health care and many other perks. We live in a beautiful world. Enjoy the sunshine, the green grass, the birds chirping,  the falling snow and the many wonders of creation.