My Why

     When I think of my students growing up in the “real-world”, I want to know that I have prepared them enough with the skills they will need to be successful beyond the walls of our classroom. I want them to be leaders, creative thinkers, problem solvers, and lifelong learners. This does not come from standardization.

     It comes from making real relationships with them in order for them to trust me while they’re learning, creating, problem solving and making mistakes. I want them to remember our classroom as a safe learning space where their passions were explored and their questions researched and answered. I want them to remember me as always believing in them, because I do. I believe in who my students are, what they are capable of, and what I know they can achieve in their future if they push past the status quo. Simon Sinek asked, “Why do you get out of bed in the morning?” (2009). Well, that is simple- my students are my why.

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     We (my current organization) needs to have a sense of urgency to start acting on these beliefs, and push students to their full potential. We cannot teach using the same brick and mortar model of education that has been used for so many years, we need to switch to a blended learning model of education. 

     Blended learning allows students to take a piece of ownership in their learning and have choice. It allows for student-centered learning and more effective differentiation! Students deserve learning that is specific to their needs. We need to provide opportunities for students to solve authentic problems that they are passionate about. We have to allow students to have a voice in their learning. Blended learning allows for this! With the use of a blended learning model and COVA (choice, ownership, voice, authentic learning), students will gain the skills they need to be lifelong, intrinsically motivated learners who will be successful in the 21st century.