As the teachers in the classroom we can plan the best lesson and administer it in a fashion that looks like a teacher commercial but if we fail to motivate our students they won't learn a thing. In a world that is so concerned with test scores, bridging gaps and not leaving a child behind we sometimes miss the opportunities to make the most impact.
"They may forget what you said but they will not forget how you made them feel." - Carl Buechner
At some point we have to stop worrying about the standards and concentrate on the relationships. Every kid is one caring adult away from being a success story. What have you done today to show how much you care for your students?
We all know those teachers who are contract teachers. Now don't get all defensive on me; I use to be guilty of being a contract teacher too. Contract teachers are great educators. They plan, grade, engage and are probably even some of the best leaders in your building. However, outside of their "expected duties" what more do they do? Do they sponsor a club to keep gets off the street? Do they organize a food drive to promote how important it is to help others? Do they come in early and tutor a student who is falling behind?
One of the things I do in my classroom to help motivate my students and make sure they know I care is called "The Wall of Champions". Every time a student masters a standard we have a congratulatory ceremony where we clap it out, the student writes their name on a post-it with the standard and either a P for proficient or a D for distinguished. Just this simple, low cost activity motivates my students to work hard. As well as acknowledges their hard work.
Don't be afraid to try something new, don't be afraid to think out of the box. You never know what might be the deciding factor for a child to work harder.
But above all, remember that you might be the first smile your students see each morning, or their first hug they've had since Friday! We have the most important job of all!
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