End of Year Musings

 As the year draws to a close, I am reflecting on the progress we've made throughout an exciting school year. I think reflective practice is the heart of every Montessorian, Montessori Child, and Montessori Family. Without reflection, we stagnate; so I encourage you to take some time with yourself, family, and child to reflect on what this educational journey has meant to you.

As you begin this practice consider these leading questions..
I learned…
I was stretched by…
I am excited about...
I'm beginning to realize…

As an educator I learned to trust more. When students write every day about meaningful topics of their choosing, they grow the most. This is something that I always knew in my heart, but I became supremely conscious of this year. I’ve learned to trust myself more, to act on my beliefs and understandings, to allow myself to try ideas based on my philosophies.

I saw how the EC community was stretched by making the invisible visible. We worked hard to document learning and practices that are sometimes unseen and we've considered ways to make the messy work of growing up, beautiful.

As Program Director, I am excited about the data from teachers I worked with this year, that serves as continued proof that Montessori teaching is so powerful. I am always excited to respond: “Did you expect something else?” when parents come to me with great big smiles because their kids grew more in curriculum than they ever have before.

I’m beginning to realize this job is filled with even more joy and purpose than I'd thought I'd had. In the midst of a fast paced school, I often feel it from teachers who are on the front lines, and from fellow administrators who are absorbing the dreams of a growing community. I am so proud that I work alongside children who are in great need believing joy is an essential part of my work. This is the most important thing I can do — be joyful and keep my focus on a defined purpose.

How about you? I invite you to reflect on your answers to these questions and look forward to a bright and exciting future of new and exciting answers each and every year.