Those who can't…

“Remember your “why”!” -Every Admin and Professional Development Coordinator, Ever

Teachers are constantly reminded to remember their “Why”. The “Why” is our purpose, our grand reason for becoming educators. It is what we are supposed to draw strength from when things are tough and we feel like giving up. Mid-October and you are feeling the hopelessness as the beginning of year newness wears off? Remember your “why”! Did a student make you cry? Remember your “why”! Having a panic attack because you did you not meet your expected growth for EOGs? Remember your “why”! You get the idea…

Sometimes it feels like the “why” is used as a band-aid for stress when in reality you need a tourniquet. However, it does serve a purpose and can be the compass you need when you feel yourself getting lost. So, before we go any further, what is my “why” for this blog? My “why” is that I’m tired. I’m tired of keeping my head down and working hard and pushing myself to the limit year after year to help my students and my school succeed, while people who don’t know what they are talking about dump all over my profession, my colleagues, my students, my school, and the community I serve.

I’ve spent the past 6 years focused on student growth and letting the results speak for themselves, but what’s being heard are those demanding our attention by complaining the loudest with half-truths and misinformation. Maybe it’s time to add a little context and commentary of my own…