Just a few pictures today, as I’m finalizing my presentation for tomorrow afternoon regarding formative assessment. Today involved a cultural exchange with students and a tour of the Hospitality and Tourism Management division of the college, followed by three students showcasing some high-flying bar tending skills. They hope to open and manage their own bar/restaurant someday, and I wish them all the best!
This evening we met with eight members of the Parent Council, which is similar to that of our PTA groups. We found that we share many of the same dilemmas, and again the conversation surrounding the quality of education and the greatest chance for students to be successful came back to the quality of life at home and the consistent involvement of parents. Like many teachers in the U.S., they battle “absentee” parents, or a lack of involvement in school activities or even in parent-teacher conferences. There’s no replacement for active parenting, but all of us agreed that we sometimes find ourselves playing that role for our students. The school nurse has been with the school about 20 years, and I know she has touched the lives of many and shown them great compassion. Teaching is exhausting and rewarding work, and we step in for kids when they need us. Below is a graphic that is posted near my desk that reminds me to be patient and to give. The kids, I hope, will remember that support and pass it along to others someday.
