Moving Forward With Purpose

My classroom is ready to go and the kids have arrived!

As I begin my 14th year of teaching, I am excited, energized, full of ideas and ready and willing to step outside of my comfort zone and try some new things that will help me grow as a learner and allow me to help my students recognize and tap into their passions, interests and potential as they also grow as learners.  

Participating in the “Cowboy Ethics” workshop last week, reminded me that it is important for me to get my goals out of my head and onto “paper”.  So here goes: Teaching Goals Take a stab at gamifying my science classes (thank you  @techedupteacher for inspiring a non-gamer to give this a go) Incorporate the concept of the “genius hour” into my science classes (many thanks to @JoyKirr for sharing her awesome resources) Continue to use technology as a powerful tool to personalize my student’s learning Personal Learning Goals Apply, apply, apply to the Google Teacher Academy (and hopefully get accepted) Write at least 2 posts/month to my blog “Reinventing Class” Become an active Twitter participant rather than a silent observer

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The Cowboy Code of Ethics

Today was my first day back at school.  To kickstart our school year, my principal brought in Kent Noble from the Center for Cowboy Ethics and Leadership.  Kent facilitated a half-day workshop called “Standing Tall:  What’s Your Code”.   

This workshop is based on James P. Owen’s, 2005 book, “Cowboy Ethics:  What Wall Street Can Learn from the Code of the West”.  

                Source:  amazon.com

Kent began his workshop by introducing us to the Cowboy “Code of the West”.  

After reviewing the “Code of the West”, Kent turned our focus to the “11th Principle”.  In essence, over the following three hours, he led each of us through the creation of our own Code of Ethics. While our immediate goal was to create our own personal Code of Ethics, in order to help every staff member stand behind their code, Kent encouraged us to publicize our personal Code.  So, here goes…

My Code of Ethics Find balance by focusing on the big picture. Happiness is a decision. Only I control my attitude Stand up and speak up for what you believe in. Always look for the gold nuggets. Make an impact. Success doesn't happen without failure. Never doubt that one person can make a difference.