We are heading into the last week of the school year. Saying it is one thing but seeing it in writing is another. It has been a year that has put education to the test. Administrators, teachers, students and parents have been pushed to the breaking point and beyond as everyone has navigated leading, teaching and learning together. There have been challenges, successes and everything in between. There have been moments of confusion, frustration, doubt, wonder, awe and joy. There has been disappointment but there has also been celebration. Despite all we have been through, it is a year that we cannot take for granted. In our district, we have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to be together in school for an extended period of time despite the pandemic. Technology has certainly been at the forefront of our success with chrome books and cameras that enabled us to "see" each other in various capacities, regardless of our location. It has enabled us to continue to teach, to create, to engage and to connect. We can't take it for granted that this is the reality in every school throughout the country. We can't take for granted the relationships that have been formed with students, teachers, administrators, parents and the school community. We must utilize those relationships to start off a new school year stronger than we are leaving this one. Sometimes we took what school was prior to the pandemic for granted. The cooperative groups, busy hallways, flexible seating, paper based assignments, mask-less smiles, even high fives. Whether we are a student, a teacher, an administrator, a parent or a community member, we must recognize that "school" is different now. Different doesn't mean bad. It doesn't mean it got worse. It's different. It doesn't mean that the cooperative groups, busy hallways, flexible seating and high fives won't be back. What it means is that we have an opportunity to reshape what school can be for students and teachers. It means that we have the opportunity to use some of the good things we have learned during the pandemic and create better learning experiences for our students (and staff). It means we have the unique chance to start over. Yes, this year has been hard.. We shouldn't take for granted all that has been accomplished. In the end, it may be what we look back on as the time that made all the difference in what the future of education will become.
1 Comment
Dan Holdf
6/14/2021 12:59:12 pm
Well said Rich…you are always a positive force in the lives of everyone who knows you!!
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Richard M. HayzlerA life long educator and current Principal of Pequannock Township High School in NJ, Rich is excited to share his ideas and thoughts about education and how we can change the world for our students and our staff. Currently Reading
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