Opinionated?

I'd like to think that I have an open mind....and then I was convicted last week while chatting with a friend by a statement that came out of my own mouth...

"I think most people thing they are more open-minded than they actually are."

So how open am I really?  I have opinions.  (Those who know me well are snickering loudly).  I am working on being a listener and putting my opinions aside but that is sooooooo NOT my nature.  I just read a blog reflection from a young man studying philosophy in college.  He included the cartoon above....and had basically the same thought.  There ARE somethings that are just right and just wrong.

BUT....

I hope and work toward listening, so that I can be solid on those opinions based on what I learn from my colleagues, our clients, students, and especially those whose opinion differs.

Guerilla Education

I've finally discovered the term that suits me....suits our team.  Guerilla Educators.

We are a small group.  We are an irregular group.  Many days we feel like we are fighting...fighting for quality instruction for all learners.  We are challenging a larger system....traditional education....all students doing the same thing, at the same time, driven and focused on standardized testing.

Yes....we are freedom fighters.  Seeking freedom for teachers to do what they know is right for students.  To break free of the tyranny dictated by focus on microscopic data points.  To challenge students to think hard, to find and pursue a passion, to solve problems, to collaborate.

Great learning is often an impromptu activity.....not "authorized" or directed.  It takes place when there is disharmony between what is know and information that is sought.  It is active....

So, call me crazy....