The game

This weeks class was interesting. We played one part of a simulation game on schools and change. I found it really interesting as we continued to move through the game that our players didn't move as fast as we wanted them too and were becoming frustrated. When I look back at how slowly change actually occurs in a school, I am actually amazed at how far our "players" got in their first year. We had everyone move at least one spot and some are actually advancing pretty quickly.

I also realized how important talking and learning to communicate with colleagues is. Our players eventually made progress by learning to work together and discussed issues. Change can only happen when everyone is part of it and whole heartedly believes the change needs to happen.

Another thing I reflected quite a bit on this past week was the In tune article. I graduated from college in 2008 and find many of the characteristics they used to describe Millennials to be very correct. In fact, my school district hired 21 new staff members the year I was hired (many of us being new graduates) and our entire district had an inservice on the differences between generations because they realized how important it is for all of us to understand where we all are coming from. Without this background, many of my veteran teachers would be put off by us "newbies" and many of us newbies would have very little patience for our veteran teachers. (ie. new technologies, strategies)

week 2

I really am enjoying the text we are reading for this course, How to Thrive as a Teacher Leader. It is giving me a number of great ideas for my own leadership qualities as well as how to continue to grow as a teacher leader. My favorite parts of the last 2 chapters (2 & 3) were:

1. Teacher leaders as part of the interview team *
2. Characteristics to look for in a new applicant
3. Learning how to prepare for being part of the interviewing process as a teacher leader
4. Keeping things positive

*In my district we have our teacher leaders sit in on interviews and also are part of the hiring process. Usually the new teacher is hired and then meets the principal and given a basic school tour and then the teacher leader (or chair) meets with the new hire for a more thorough meeting/tour. New hire orientation is done at the district and building level as well followed by a mentor/mentee program.