Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year or should I say “Happy New Year!”? When I think of New Years, I think of New Year’s Resolutions—and just like at New Years, many of our students, teachers, parents and administrators start off the school year with their own resolutions. The problem with resolutions is they are often broken not long after they begin. Here are some tips to help you keep your New (School) Year’s resolutions:
1. Choose goals that are attainable and realistic.
Think about your previous school year and choose one or two areas where you think you can improve. Instead of year long goals, consider semester or marking period goals.
2. Share your goals with other people.
It is easier to stay on track when other people can support what you are doing.
3. Write down your goals and post them where you can see them daily.
Daily reminders will help you stay focused on what you are trying to achieve!
4. Set up checkpoints and allow for some setbacks.
If you are constantly monitoring your progress, you are more likely to take the necessary steps to reach your goal. At each checkpoint, either celebrate your successes or get help getting back on track.
One of my goals is to keep creating posts for this blog. If you notice that the blog is not being updated, email me (raabb@rlasd.k12.pa.us, call me, or stop me in the hallway and help me get back on track! What will your goals be for the 2011-2012 school year?
I make goals for myself as a teacher each year. This year I am working to make better use of social media such as twitter with my students. I have other concrete goals but the advice is very good.
ReplyDeleteOne of my goals this year is to allow for more collaboration between students, both face-to-face and through the use of technology. This year, I have replaced my traditional student desks with round tables, in order to allow for more collaboration and cooperative learning opportunities.
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