A Culture of Learning

The fear of failure can drive of us or it can impede us.  As we begin to build a culture here at Lincoln Junior High one important characteristic of our culture that I want to establish is a culture of action research in the classroom.  Moving from a culture focused on teaching to one focused on learning requires confidence to take risks in the classroom that will benefit what is best for students and will promote a learning.  When we challenge the status quo and step outside our comfort zone to try a new strategy or challenge students to take more ownership for their learning or give up control in the classroom by becoming the guide on the side rather than the sage on the stage we are taking a risk from the norm.  In a culture built upon learning these actions and others are imperative.  Teachers and students learn from taking action, being okay with failing at times, making mistakes, then reflecting  on these risks, failures, and mistakes.  As we move into a new era at Lincoln we need to create more opportunities to learn through action and reflection.  If individually we challenge ourselves to do more, go beyond the status quo, take a risk without fear of failure our students and culture will benefit and we will grow our capacity to provide the best education for our students.  I ask all staff members to think about new ways we can build our capacity as learners. What new innovative ways can we collaborate, reflect, share, and learn with and from  each other and beyond?  One thing is certain: We can not be afraid to try new strategies and take a few risks as we learn to become the Best We Can Be!