The first week of May comes with Teacher Appreciation Week, along with several other holidays where we thank and express gratitude for people who impact our lives. Mothers, Nurses, Teachers- all have some common attributes. They are all caregivers who make a difference in a child's life. One of my all time favorite poems is, '100 Years from Now'. We all need to be reminded about the ways that we can impact the lives of our children and the future.
As the calendar turns to May, educators and students also celebrate Spring with warmer weather, lilacs blooming and longer daylight hours. The month brings about the beginning of the "ending" of another school year. Endings come with reflection so that when we begin again, we start with learning from the past. I ask myself questions at this time of year. I reflect on past experiences and analyze data to determine what went well and what still needs improvement. Here are 20 End of the Year Teacher Questions from a blog called Minds in Bloom by Rachel Lynette, that are great for reflecting and growing.
Edutopia also has a great article titled Transformation Begins with Reflection. Looking back is essential when moving forward. Take some time to celebrate all the progress that you and your students made this year as you reflect and make plans for the next!