Birthday Celebration

Dear Learning Omnivores

Heather Lageman and I are reading the book, “The Power of Mattering.”  Students need to know they matter, and they are smart.  With the current uncertainty in schools and communities we think it is equally, if not more important, to make sure teachers, custodians, food service, bus drivers, educational assistants, administrative assistants etc. know they matter too.

Please click on the link below to read Heather’s article of birthday celebrations.  You might use this as a guide to celebrate students who volunteer in many non-profits and community services.  We might find ways to celebrate those staff members who go above and beyond to help students who may not have support for learning.  In our experience there are many people doing exceptional jobs under difficult situations and celebrating them is especially affirming.

In an urban high school, during spring awards ceremony, we gave a “beat the odds” award for those students with the  persistence to overcome many challenges and graduate.  Bill visited a school in New Zealand that had “golden heart” award for students helping students, staff helping staff, and positive relationships between staff and students.

We ask, what kind of culture do you want to work in?  How might you contribute to a life of contributing to yourself and others.  NOTE:  don’t forget administrative leaders.  Sometimes leadership can be a lonely position.

Thank you, Heather, for reminding us to take time to celebrate and make sure people know they matter.

The Birthday Celebration Revolution