A New School Year and a Renewed Commitment to Guiding Genius

It has been many moons since last I wrote a post. Why? Simply, Life Happens. Although I have not written to share my experiences, anecdotes, insights, research findings and opinions on the subject of Guiding Genius, I have diligently contributed to the awareness of intentional teaching methods in early childhood education.

Last year I had the opportunity to teach at many different schools alongside many different teachers. I discovered many in my profession hold low expectations for our children and therefore have low standards when developing their abilities. I met a redeeming number of hard working, committed administrators that share wonderful advice and are willing to put in extra effort to support their teachers, if only the teachers would take advantage of their offerings. I also had the pleasure of meeting hundreds of preschool children eager to discover what the world has to offer.

Educators have lives outside of their classrooms and schools, so do the children we teach. Life last year for me, within my school system, was an uphill battle. A commitment to my own goals and visions, a commitment to the students in my care, and trust in the greater purpose- my piece in the greater whole- aided my resilience. Now I have a clearer understanding of the obstacles not only our children face within an education system that cannot consider individual cases due to its quantitative enormity, but also of the obstacles for teachers who swim against the current of traditional, homogenous practices.

This year will be different. I am different. My school is different. The children are different. My coworkers are different. Did I say I was different? I am a tad bit less optimistic. Which is good. Too much stardust makes clear vision impossible. I am also evermore resolved to teach parents and peer educators the necessity of strategically guiding genius.... If not me, then who?

Classroom Prep. New School, New Classroom. *Newness!*