Together, we can. Together, we will!
Bears,
While looking online for something to share during the morning announcements (each day we have a quote or an idea that focuses on our trait-of-the-month -- September's trait is perseverance), I came across a blog that talked about placing more value on commitment than motivation. I think there is a lot of wisdom in this idea.
Motivation is a good thing, but it can be affected. A tough week could lower your motivation to get up and get back at it the next week. Failures or mistakes could challenge one's motivation to stay steadfast on the task at hand. Outside forces or events can attack our motivation. Feelings can trick us into thinking our motivation isn't worth maintaining. Don't get me wrong - motivation is important, and it can be a useful and needed catalyst for change. But motivation can come and go. When the work gets tough and we don't see the results or the fruit of our labors as quickly as we'd like, our motivation to keep going can suffer. If we place too much value or faith in our motivation, we are in trouble if it starts to dwindle. We could lose focus on our purpose, our mission, our calling, our joy - you name it.
Commitment, however, is an inward dedication to remain consistent despite feelings or circumstances. Commitment says, "Get up," when you've fallen or made a mistake. Commitment says, "I can do this," when nothing seems to be going right. Commitment says, "Focus," when you are bombarded by distractions. Commitment says, "Keep going," when others (or you) say it's not worth it. Commitment says, "One more step, one more mile, one more day," when part of you is screaming, "QUIT!" Commitment says, "Remember why this is important," when you start to lose sight of the goals. We can't always trust our motivation, but if we are committed, we can trust that no matter what we face, we'll stay true to our course and continue to make progress, even if the results are not yet obvious.
Being motivated is great, but being committed is what ultimately gets the desired results that initially inspired your motivation in the first place.
Staying motivated to teach and reach our students is important and admirable, but staying committed means we'll do the work needed to make sure we get done the right things and do them well.
Everyone have a great week! Be motivated - stay committed.
Weekly Recap
Lots of great things were happening in the classrooms. I had a number of opportunities to watch our teachers perform as the true professionals they are. Students are engaged in meaningful learning, and they are having fun while doing it!
Tuesday was Bacon's Back-to-School night. We'd like to thank our parents for a wonderful turnout. Your dedication to your children's success inspires us to work hard and do our best for them!
On Thursday, Linda from the RAC Team spoke at our staff meeting about our Language Arts goal for the year, guided reading and centers, and running records. The staff will be trained on running records (and other areas as needed) during upcoming PLCs.
The Week Ahead
Monday (9/25): D day - lesson plans due, 2nd grade LA training during PLC
Tuesday (9/26): E day - another great day of fun and learning
Wednesday (9/27): A day - Workout Wednesday, staff flu shots, 5th grade Kids about the Bay trip
Thursday (9/28): B day - another great day of fun and learning
Friday (9/29): C day - School Spirit Day/wear Bacon gear
On the horizon
October 4 - Staff development day (no school for students - staff report for PD)
October 9 - Columbus Day (no school)
October 11 - progress reports go home
October 26 - Fire Safety day
Pictures from around the School
