As the Curriculum and Assessment Coordinator of Manson Northwest Webster, I’ve struggled with what to write about in my first post. I’ve learned so much from my newly developed (and growing) PLN and from my colleagues at Manson Northwest Webster, and I’m overwhelmed with the exciting possibilities of how we can change the classroom for the benefit of all students. However, I thought, it is a lot easier to reflect on 21st century learning and write about the classroom if you are a principal and have a building full of teachers and kids in your charge. But perhaps that’s just been an excuse. A central office administrator needs to consider the whole system and look at the big picture, so there’s plenty to focus on! Since I’ve recognized that, I’ve had several good ideas come to me and I’ve “written” many posts. Unfortunately, that “writing” has taken place when I’ve been swimming laps, riding my bike, or taking a walk. And now, what seemed really profound at the time, is gone.
So, after additional thought, I’ve decided to write about what I consider one of the most important initiatives I’ve coordinated since beginning my position 7 years ago--MNW’s shared vision for teaching and learning. As I make connections from discussions with district colleagues, friends on Twitter, and from my professional reading, it’s clear to me our overall goal should be to become a 21st Century School, and I believe our vision will take us there.
While the vision itself is important, the process we used to create the vision is equally as important. We have had a strong collaborative structure in the district for several years. In 2008-2009, we began a visioning process led by Prairie Lakes AEA and our District Leadership Team. This process used our collaborative teams, which allowed for all teachers to have input into the vision. Since then we have used our vision has an umbrella for all we do in the classroom. Last year we began early attempts at tracking the progress of our vision as it moves into the classroom. This school year we will do the same with plans for improving our tracking process. I believe this vision, will be our guide as we move forward and strive to do what’s best for all kids in preparing them for life beyond the walls of Manson Northwest Webster.
I look forward to learning and sharing in future posts, because as I’ve come to realize, I’m a learner first and an educator second.
