It is the beginning of a new day in Minnesota…a cold day, yet the sun is shining. It is a day of promise and hope.
Within a few miles of my home are more than 30 schools: colleges, high schools, alternative schools, middle schools, trade schools, elementary schools, and preschools. Driving through our neighborhood, I pass thousands of students…many in buses, some being driven by their parents, others biking or walking with friends…on their way to school. What will happen in the lives of these young people today?
The answer to that question comes in the form of four other questions:
- What will be given to students today?
- What will be taken from students today?
- What will be discovered in students today?
- What will be developed in students today?
The answers to these questions will affect the lives of young people and our nation for decades to come. In other words, whatever is taking place in the schools in our neighborhoods and throughout our country is important.
These four questions can be answered in many ways. One answer depends on the teachers (teachers being all adults in the building) whom the students encounter every day in schools.
What will teachers give students today?
- Some will give their students information and assignments.
- Others will give their students hope and encouragement.
What will teachers take from students today?
- Some will take their students’ curiosity and spirit.
- Others will take their false beliefs and roadblocks to success.
What will teachers discover in students today?
- Some will discover boredom and apathy in their students.
- Others will discover in their students a desire to learn and make a positive difference in their lives.
What will teachers develop in students today?
- Some will develop negativity in their students.
- Others will develop Star Qualities that will enrich their students’ lives.
What is happening in schools today? Human life is being developed or diminished. So let’s get the word out that what is being given, taken, discovered, or developed in schools today matters.
People who have influence in schools—students, teachers, parents, administrators, counselors, coaches, support staff, school board members, policy makers, taxpayers, and grandparents—need to take seriously and be concerned about the terribly important things that are going on in schools.
A revolution is needed in our schools today. Only the Rip Van Winkles who have been asleep for the last 20 years would be unaware of that. The next few Wellness Wednesdays will focus on the wellness of our schools and how we might fuel the revolution to empower youth and teachers to make a positive difference in their lives.
Reflection: Take a few minutes to identify what you think is going on in American schools today.
From Willow, Kevin, and Tom…who think about schools every day.
Paul Bernabei
Top 20 Training
paul@top20training.com
651-470-3827
