I couldn’t agree more with Sally’s post yesterday – our students certainly did us, and themselves, proud.
Getting to know them in the classroom, I experience our students’ strengths and struggles as I guide and support them in their learning process. Working productively in class requires focus, connection, concentration and determination, in fact, the very attributes needed on the football field or athletics arena.
Observing our students this week, watching their determination to win, it didn’t appear they just wanting to compete; they were in it for the glory and glory was what many of them achieved!
In many cases, the students who were particularly successful on the day, were the same ones who I see succeeding in the classroom. They showed that same focus, connection, concentration and determination. I believe what helps create success is the wondrous force we all possess –The Will. When a student says to me, “I can’t do…(whatever)” I usually respond by saying that I don’t know that word (can’t). I encourage students to keep trying, success often follows failure and mistakes are great learning opportunities.
Today young people have so much at their disposal, so many opportunities, so much support, so many gadgets that, in my view, are damaging to the development of the will.
I came away from the athletics carnival knowing that many of our students are working well in every facet of their lives, striving to achieve the very best they can. What more could a teacher, coach, mentor or parent wish for?
Rodney
Nicely said Rodney. Josh told me you had a word with him recently where you assimilated his on field performance to his potential in the class room and in life. He was extremely encouraged and I extremely grateful. It amazes me how much the teachers, coaches and staff input into the lives of our kids beyond just education an training. Thanks to all the staff at IFS for going beyond the job description. It has not gone unnoticed.