Lessons from Coach - Armed with a whistle, determination and pure grit "the coach" walks onto the field not only ready, but expecting to win. As an educator, I have learned so many valuable lessons from a coach. Lessons in how to work as and with a team, how to remain positive and persevere and how to build a professional learning network. As I watched my oldest child pay football since he was in third grade, I knew he was destined to coach. His love of the game, desire to improve and dedication to his team has always amazed me. I had no idea the impact watching him play and now, watching him coach, would have on my teaching, leading and learning.
Working as and With a Team - Teamwork makes the dream work! Winning is a team sport in this profession. Of course, the ultimate winners are our students but to catapult them to the winners circle teams meet, educate, inspire and encourage them throughout their school career. Building on the strength of each team member requires trust, courage and transparency. Coaches do this on and off the field daily in an effort to put the best players in the game. Depending on the offense, the defense may change. The team is in a constant state of evolving with the main goal of getting better. Persevering and Remaining Positive -
"Nothing is impossible to achieve through hard work and dedication. Everyone loses but it's what you do with that loss that will determine whether you're a champion or not." - Drew Morais
Professional Learning Network - Coaches were networking well before the term Professional Learning Network (PLN) was ever coined. Sharing film, talking "shop", sharing plays and strategies, all in an attempt to create a better, stronger team. A team that was well conditioned, well versed in strategies and had a deep loyalty to the game. PLNs have evolved from simple phone calls to Skyping and sending tweets to potentially thousands of "team" members worldwide. The possibilities are endless when it comes to seeking and sharing ideas. Ideas that can strengthen and build teams that impact a different generation of learners. Make the dream work through teamwork! Until next time, enjoy the view from your own sidewalk (or bleachers)! Karen