"Those who can, do; those who can't, teach" 2011-2012

"Those who can, do; those who can't, teach" from George Bernard Shaw's 1905 stage play Man and Superman."

This quote has come up in conversation every year since I began teaching in 2005. Many have agreed to disagree, yet others have chosen to argue the lies of this quote with some great examples and educator jargon. All in all, it means something different to every person. Some may take offense; others are motivated to prove it wrong.

Does this quote make all educators shiver in fear and become sad about their life choices? For some yes, for others, no. Life as an educator is truly a rollercoaster. You start bright-eyed bushy-tailed, and if encouraged, supported, and you live to the best of your potential, ultimately you learn and understand that teaching is not a career, it's a journey of human transformation.

Teaching has not been easy for me, but every day I come to work I have chosen to learn more. Learn more about my students, learn more about my colleagues, learn more about the families, and learn more about teaching strategies. In learning more I have found that I can be a resource; a reward for students and a reprieve for my colleagues. The beauty in this is that I am activating a human part that many have long forgotten, the basis of trust and relationship building.

With reflective tools such as journaling and observation, educators can make leaps and bounds. All educators should strive to start journaling and make use of their observation skills. These have helped me be the best me possible. What teacher has time to journal? Not the full-on journaling that we envision happens on a beach, but quick notes, one-liners, etc. can help. The amount of work and discussion that occurs day to day in the classroom is the equivalent of 2+ work days in the business world. So being able to take a few minutes can be the difference between Brenda having a meltdown at 9 am every day because she did not eat breakfast. In the beginning, my journal was my desk calendar (be sure to cover it so that it's private). After finding a balance, I was able to develop a youth group where I learned from my students and was able to teach them about their Latino culture. Teaching has changed and it will continue to change. One thing I can do is learn about myself, and my craft, and be ready to adapt when change is required.

Picture 1 -F.L.O.R Girls Group- meets Judy Torres American Music Artist

Picture 2- Saying Thanks to important people in our lives activity

Picture 3- End of year Lunch- manners and friendship