Saturday 13 January 2018

Kindness Starts Where?

Being a Teacher Teaching on Call (TTOC) I get to see a lot of different classrooms, students, teaching styles, lessons, and so on.  The best part of my job is coming home with something wonderful. I am easily impressed when I see teachers preparing their students to become global, kind citizens. The lessons presented, the discussions, the actions taken - it all sinks in. 

This week was great!  I taught from Kindergarten to grade seven.  The little ones played nicely together at their chosen centres.  I didn't have to break up one squabble!  They have already learned to care and share.  I was impressed!
The older classroom read a short passage, almost like a blog post, and were then prompted to write about it.  Mr. Browne's Precepts, by R.J. Palacio. I'd never heard of it, but it was great, full of daily quotes, which I love! At the end of the day I picked up the book and found that it was by the author of Wonder, which I have not read but have heard of as it is now a movie with well known actors. To have a discussion ranging from baboons to children about bullying, aggressive behaviour, and how a change in attitude can change the future was powerful. 

There is a kindness initiative in the school and it is working!  The principal came in and shared how they had just witnessed the kindness of older students helping younger students getting out of their wet, snowsuits. It makes a difference in all their lives, and is greatly appreciated. This kindness initiative is seen and felt everyday, by everyone. It is the only school where the students, regardless of which class I am in, thank me for being their teacher that day. They thank ME!  Do I feel appreciated?  Yes, I do.  It warms my heart.  And yes, I love working there, as an On-Call teacher.     
And do I thank them for being amazing students, especially towards a TTOC?  Absolutely! 

Kindness, keep it going!