Courage

Teaching is Courage

When I first became a principal, I received an inspiring gift from a teacher. It was a Cowardly Lion Doll. Yes, a doll of the famous lion in the Wizard of Oz. Along with it came a note that said, "So you have the courage to make all the right decisions."

And so I began my life as a principal with the hope that I would always have the courage to do what's right.

I am thinking that so many educators approach each day with courage.  

Courage to wake up in the early morning hours
     flooded with thoughts of the day 
     and struggling to figure out what they can do 
     for those students who need them the most.

Courage to learn more about their student's lives outside of school 
     even though what they find out often breaks their heart.

Courage to have the hardest conversations 
     with children, parents and our colleagues.

Courage to see the world 
     through the eyes of their students.

Courage to walk into school with a smile 
     even though they know their day will be difficult.

Courage to push their students 
     to new understandings.

Courage to know 
     when one of their students needs a hug 
     more than any instruction they could offer.

Teaching is Courage 

          I am participating in the  
          March Slice of Life Challenge. 
          Each day we post our thoughts. 
          Thank you, Two Writing Teachers! 

          Day 12 - Courage