An example of an extra credit assignment I gave the seniors. Inspired by a ted talk by Patti Dobrowolski
Above is an example of the drawing I created that shows the 3 bold steps I have taken in order to focus, believe and act on in my practice. The assignment was originally intended to help my seniors find ways to improve themselves and complete a drawing and an explanation as an extra credit assignment. That did not yield many results from them but I actually found it useful for myself as a beginning teacher. At the time, my reality as a beginning MAT, was that I felt overwhelmed and lacked balance in my life. I still feel like I could use some more personal time but I have set some non-negotiables to improve my quality of life. My focus points were to value myself, empower others, reflect often, and improve constantly..
Students working together creating blueprints for their bridge projects.
I know that I can and have created a positive classroom community but note that there are still a few students with whom I still struggle. I understand that there always will be those challenging students. The students that I do have trouble with are also students ones that all teachers at UPCS have issues with as well, so that puts things into perspective. Learning to let go of the thoughts of being the perfect teacher and instead striving to grow is what I should be focusing on more instead.
A nationally acclaimed comic performer, high-performance business consultant, speaker, strategic illustrator and newly minted author, Patti Dobrowolski spends her time focused on new neuroscience discoveries that leverage the power of imagination and visuals to actualize a vision of the future.