Domenic Martini Week 8

The first thing I notice about my thinking compared to the start of this class is that I am much more critical with how I approach situations with colleagues. This could means instances where I initiate conversations or weekly meetings that are held by my administration. I am constantly applying different concepts we've discussed to these situations to understand how they can be improved. I am also looking for more help from my colleagues in trying to develop systemic solutions to issues many of us see and have issue with.

Something I am now consistently trying to change are my own patterns of behavior and making everything I do purposeful. I have asked my administration for more duties and opportunities surrounding helping other in the school, including support staff, feel more comfortable and included. For instance, many of our office and custodial staff are unwilling to redirect student behaviors largely because they are uncomfortable dealing with them. I am working on something right now that will help them understand how to approach students after the winter break, as well as show them where they can find support in the future. 

Many of the theories and practices we've discussed I am trying to institute in my classroom. While I understand that there are differences in the pedagogy and andragogy I find that many of the practices work well in both situations. For instance, as information has advanced I believe it is more and more important for high school students to find meaning in their education beyond the "next level" of college or work. What we teach needs to matter to them in the now for it to really be accepted and digested.