Here is Jenna Tamura’s end-of-the-year post. I meant to get it out a long time ago. Sorry, Jenna.

“I’ve always heard every ending is also a new beginning, we just don’t know it at the time.  I’d like to believe that’s true.” I’ve heard this quote several times as I continue to watch new, and rerun episodes of one of my favorite shows Criminal Minds.  Many know that the world of teaching is full of both knowns and unknowns.  Sometimes it is out of our control. But other times we can do something about it.  As this year comes to a close, I’ve thought about the things that I’m going to take with me into a new school year.

I will continue to do smiles and frowns with each one of my class periods every single day.  As I think about all the bits and pieces of stuff that I’ve learned about my kids, I can’t imagine going back and not knowing all those pieces of their life puzzle.  They know a lot about my life puzzle because I share as well. They’ve learned more about each other. We have become more than just a classroom. We are a community.  In my sixth period the other day I observed a group of 10 kids, who collectively probably wouldn’t have socialized outside of our community before, circle up to play a giant game of Uno during some down time.  In that moment I knew smiles and frowns are a non-negotiable for me moving forward.

I will continue with our select-and-support grading policy.  I can’t validate ditching the unconventional for the traditional when I’ve witnessed our grading policy work.  Yes, we know there are always changes and improvements to be made as we strive for “better”, but Monte Syrie and I are committed to staying on this path because kids respond when they are in charge of their own learning.  The stakes are less stressful because kids know they have time and we are flexible to their needs. We focus on growth. We focus on learning. We focus on what is best for kids.

So, as I say goodbye to my kids with either a high five, handshake, or a hug, I know that the break of summer will bring a new beginning to a new school year.  And while I don’t know what that new beginning will bring, I know I will carry these parts of this year with me into that new year with a new group of students.  

Do. Reflect. Do Better.