Twenty three days in and not a single point or letter has been exchanged between my kids and me. Only feedback.

That’s the “different I dared” this year. I have long believed and others have previously proven that feedback, not numbers or letters, support learning. But to get here, where my long-held beliefs are becoming my long-desired reality, I had to get beyond grading. And that has been a long journey of trial and error. And though my journey is far from over, I believe I have found a sweet spot between what is and what could be. I have discovered different. And it’s working.

Yesterday, as I was giving kids feedback on our latest Learning Check, I felt a feeling. I had a moment. And while, yesterday, I couldn’t put a finger on exactly what I felt, today, I think I can name it freedom. There’s something liberating about moving beyond the pretense of grades and engaging in the honesty of feedback. Situated in the context of a learner’s work, success criteria, and a teacher’s assessment, feedback comes to life. It gives life. It feeds the learning. And, it feels right. It feels good. It’s simple. It’s supportive. It’s…well, super. I have had a few “this-feels-right” moments over the past three years with Project 180, but nothing has quite matched where I find myself right now: liberated, free and full of energy to work with my kids.

Have I arrived, then? Of course not. And I would hope those who’ve been with me on this journey for some time now, would never expect or accept such a pronouncement from me. Chasing better has no ends, but there are a few betters along the way that prompt a brief pause, so one can enjoy the moment. And for the moment, I am going to enjoy this moment.

Today’s Trail

Along today’s trail we will experience…

…connecting through Smiles and Frowns.

…growing with grammar.

…analyzing character.

…creating interview questions.

…reflecting in our Journey Journals.

…hearing a Sappy Sy Rhyme.

Happy Tuesday, all.

Do. Reflect. And Pause to Enjoy the Better Sometimes.