Celebrate!

Celebrations have always been important, especially when they are coupled with growth. I just returned from two such celebrations in Orange and Polk Counties, two districts that are moving the lesson study envelope forward. These celebrations brought together teachers and administrators involved in lesson study and celebrated their courage and commitment to the idea that education is not only close the door and teach. Indeed, these professional development sessions did more than acknowledge the brave; they also refreshed and reaffirmed the ideals of lesson study. One celebration included the words of poet Emily Dickenson as a way to ponder the power of lesson study.

I dwell in Possibility

A fairer House than Prose

More numerous of Windows

Superior for Doors

 

Of Chambers as the Cedars

Impregnable of Eye

And for Everlasting Roof

The Gambrels of the Sky

 

Of Visitors the fairest

For Occupation This

The spreading wide my narrow Hands

To gather Paradise

 

The opening of windows and doors to let in the light will surely illuminate our efforts to educate children and move the possibilities forward. Celebrate what you have done. Build upon that foundation.