The newness of the school year has worn off. The holiday breaks are over. The cold temperatures and dreary days make it tough to motivate thousands of students.
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| Terri Cox-Cruey |
And yet, our teachers prevail.
For many, graduation and the end of a successful school year defines the dedication of our educators. As the superintendent, I am most proud of the work they are doing right now.
It is well known that teachers face many obstacles in the quest to educate our youth. I want to take the time to recognize the intentional, focused instruction that our teachers are working on in each classroom in all grade levels. Although teachers never stop teaching, our educators’ commitment to excellence during these winter months is the most challenging of all. They are to be commended for differentiated learning strategies, removing barriers to learning and collaboration with all stakeholders.
The responsibility of our teachers does not end when the school day is complete. Many of them coach a school-sponsored activity, albeit in sports, academics or the arts, not to mention the countless hours they spend analyzing resources to improve instruction so they can make a difference in the lives of the children they teach and build relationships for the betterment of the community.
While traveling across the district and eating lunch with the teachers, they have discussed data-driven instruction based on the state standards. Listening to their classroom activities and the high expectations they have not only for their students but also themselves is inspiring. Teachers across the district are sharing innovational lessons with me and also their reflections of what is working and how we can build on that success. The teachers in the Kenton County School District have positive ideas and it has been productive and refreshing for me to be there to listen. The lunch conversations with teachers are insightful and I enjoy the informal setting and the hospitality each school climate and culture provides our community.
American educator Robert John Meehan said, “As teachers, we have the ability to rebuild the world for our students. By our sincere efforts we can make their world more rewarding, more gratifying and perhaps ... even more significant.”
The personalized learning opportunities for students are boundless in Kenton County. The educational stakes are high, but not just because of assessment. The stakes are high because our teachers truly are dedicated to the success and growth of each individual student in our district. I applaud each and every teacher who makes a difference in the life of a child.
By: Terri Cox-Cruey.
She is superintendent of Kenton County Schools.
Source: Cincinnati.com
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