Education has changed so much in the past 10 years. I am sure that in the next 10 it will be adjusted even more. As I look forward to year 11, I begin to think about goals and what it means to have them, pursue them and meet them. Each year I sit down personally and set some goals for myself. I have always felt that one of the most important qualities that a person can have is being able to reflect and critique themselves. Each day is filled with many opportunities for improvement and reflection--TAKE ADVANTAGE! Individual improvement can be just a small piece of the whole, but an important one.
One way that any person can individually improve themselves is through collaboration with other colleagues. I have learned this summer that social media has opened the Pandora's box of collaboration(literally!) and it goes by the name of Twitter. I have learned more this summer from individuals around the country then I ever thought I could. Connecting with fellow administrators and educators is easy and quick. I have attempted to add comments to the discussions, getting and giving feedback of my own. While reading through some things this past week, I came across one from a Superintendent in Illinois who posted 5 rules to live by: 1. Life isn't fair 2. Just Try 3. Life is short--enjoy it 4. Family>Than Job 5. Don't buy stuff you don't need. If everyone understood what these simple lessons meant wouldn't everything be much easier??
August 14th will be the first day of school for our incoming Freshman. We have an awesome activity that we have done for 4 years in the Commitment to Graduate banner. Each year all freshman sign the banner and place their hand print on it signifying their commitment to graduate in 4 years. The banner will hang at the end of the commons until it is removed to hang at Graduation. Here is a picture of the class of 2015's banner:
It is an eye-opening experience to see the look on their faces as they sign the banner, not quite understanding what they are doing, but at the same time realizing that it is important and the next 4 years are going to go fast. Before we know it this years class of 2014 will be headed across the stage.
I have had a wonderful summer with my family, but thinking about my last 10 years has me excited for the next 10. Setting goals, reading, studying, continuing my education, and learning from those that are more experienced than me has greatly increased my knowledge and my desire. I wish each of you an outstanding week and beyond-Thanks for Reading! Make sure to follow me on Twitter @Jfuhrman3932.
Jarred Fuhrman
Assistant Principal Basehor Linwood High School
Basehor, KS
@jfuhrman3932
