On the court I’ve watched my daughter grow as a role player. Improving her rebounding, following the shots, passing the inbound plays, and looking for the assist. Does she work on her shot? Every minute she can, but her part in 11 year old travel ball is not always about the shot. She is learning her role and we celebrate her growth, not points. The friendships and learning moments of being on a team will prepare her for many things as she makes her way through this world.
It’s American Education Week and it’s a great time to talk about the educators’ role. As a teacher, the role of parent happens as soon as their students walk in the door. They make sure to begin their day with a warm hello and a listening ear. They use their intuitions on how to move throughout the day, keeping pace and engagement in check with hunger and movement. Their content knowledge often gets overlooked through the daily grind of growing 25+ young minds and meeting the demands of curriculum maps, assessments, differentiation....the list goes on. Every teacher has a role for the student but they must also have a role within the building community. Teachers need each other. This is not a profession where you show up for work, put your eight hours in, and go home. Lifetime friendships are made when you connect with others in your building. Through these friendships, discussions happen and roles are defined. Some take on many roles while others hone in on one specific strength. The balance between giving time to their school families and their family becomes a challenge. Meeting the emotional need of both is very overwhelming. I challenge all educators to reflect on your intrapersonal role you’ve defined and how can you improve the balance.
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I was just challenged by one of my teacher leaders with knowing their role. Utilizing every single resource and strength our teachers possess is critical as a building leader. During the same week, I was assigned to a group for master planning, one that I can connect my strengths for our district; marketing. As a building leader, knowing your role is critical, and one that must be defined as you grow and learn. I am going to be honest, knowing I’m good at telling our story and working with people put me in a reflective moment. Then, I reminded myself of what my husband tells us all the time, “Know your role.” My role, at this moment, will be different as I move through this world of leadership. As I grow in my role, I am in charge of redefining my role, learning new approaches and honing in on the areas I need improvement.
Through my reflection I had to find balance. His strengths are given to us at just the right time. I must constantly remind myself that I am being guided on this path and listening is key. Talking to my peers and listening to their perspectives, trials, successes, and opinions has helped during my reflection. I can hear dad now; take care and serve others. My ultimate role is serving others through spreading peace and love. That will look different with different experiences and circumstances. Sometimes it takes time to remember; Just Love.
