Week 2 - Do it Your Way

"People only see what they are prepared to see" - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Teaching eighth grade science was Susan's passion. She effectively covered the subject content and inspired her students to ask questions. Most days she could be found at the center of huddled eighth graders who were trying to catch a glimpse of some scientific phenomenon.

Her principal, Mr. Dawson, was from "the old school." He saw disorder when students crowded around her. He saw unprofessional conduct in her enthusiasm. He didn't see what he expected to see: students working quietly and a teacher lecturing while using the board or projector.

During a conference, the assistant principal warned Susan of his forthcoming negative evaluation. She muzzled her disbelief as she strained to maintain the appearance of professionalism.

Realizing that it was his perception that her students weren't learning, she knew she had to prove otherwise. Calmly, she explained her philosophy and invited him to return the next day to her class.

That day, she carefully orchestrated a lesson that showcased her students' grasp of a scientific method. They performed beautifully, as if on cue. Once Mr. Dawson was satisfied with her teaching technique, Susan was free to teach in her own way.

Fair or not, there will be times in teaching that you, too, will have to satisfy the doubts of others and prove yourself.

Sometimes you need to give others what they want before you can do what you want.

Prompt: Some ways I believe I can help others to better understand my style include . . .