“The best thing about teaching is, it matters. The hardest thing about teaching is, it matters every day.” – Todd Whitaker
Doesn’t that quote just get right to the point?
I’m a classroom teacher that took the plunge to work with adults, instead of my 7th grade kiddos, as an Induction Coach. I had no idea what to expect in this new role and I found myself often revisiting the quote posted above. Because, teaching really does matter (with an ! not a .) and when you’re a first year teacher, at times, ‘every day’ can feel like a pretty heavy responsibility.
It’s a humbling experience to be welcomed into a stranger’s classroom, see inside their thinking and choices, learn about their insecurities, troubleshoot and brainstorm, and reflect with them. While being an advocate, extra pair of eyes, and a listener to some truly amazing novice educators, I grew truckloads professionally (and personally) alongside of them. But, one of the most rewarding aspects of this instructional coach gig is witnessing many teacher aha! moments.
When I would return to a teacher’s classroom the following week, ask a question and get an eloquently, well thought out response, I began to realize that I was observing tremendous growth. I’m sure many teachers were thinking (but not saying), ‘Liz, seriously? Duh. I’m making this incredibly purposeful decision because x, y, and, z’. And that, is the beauty of teaching…it’s all about growth.
If we’re not learning ourselves, if we don’t take the time to reflect upon actions and choices, or if we don’t collaborate and share with one another, then tremendous growth… well… just doesn’t happen. And if the hardest thing about teaching is, ‘it matters every day’ then we better get ourselves a professional network and reach out within our school communities. This way, we’re able to share and support one another in that immense responsibility.
Teacher Aha! Moments 