C.L.A.S.S. (Connecting Learning Assures Successful Students)

Sunday, an old friend, who just happened to be my high school band director (Les Miller), and I got to attend a WGI Regional. As we sat there on the bleachers, trying not to complain about how uncomfortable we were, I realized that we had been doing this; going to marching band, guard, and drum corps shows for about 38 YEARS now. Not every year, not even every season, but for over a span of 38 years. Wow. The teaching profession becomes more challenging every year, but I hope everyone has had a teacher that has made a positive impact in their life. Mr Miller took me to my first marching band contest (along with about 70-80 other students) in 1985, which then led to drum corps shows, then winter guard contests. These things have really enriched my life and brought me joy (even through the pain of sitting on bleachers, lol). He was the first to see a little bit of leadership in me at the age of only 14- and took a chance in helping me see that in myself, and I’m confident that without that little nudge from him my life may have turned out differently. He, and many other teachers helped me realize that I had potential. I was not the best musician, and definitely not the smartest kid in his band classes…in fact I didn’t continue in music after high school (although many if his other students did) but it impacted me in so many other areas of my life.
So if you had a teacher that made a difference in your life, feel free to comment their name below, or just smile and say their name outloud. Teachers will never be millionaires, but we all hope to be remembered by our former students as a positive influence in their lives. Thanks, Mr Miller. Have a good day everyone…and don’t let anyone steal your joy.

Today I’m at Orleans Elementary. I just love the people here. The principal decked out the conference room with snacks fo the day, music was blasting as kids entered the building, kids and teachers were dancing in the halls. What a great way to start the day. Do something positive for kids today, whomever you are. Protect them, enrich them, give them confidence. Have a great day and don’t let anything steal your joy.

We love our friends at Wes Del! Keep spreading the joy!

This week I’ve had the pleasure of being at Bradie Shrum Elementary. We are so close to Kentucky that some of the teachers are wearing Derby hats today and I love it! It has been a blessing to make new friends this year and share the joy of CLASS. Don’t let anything steal your joy today!

Love this artwork at Bradie Shrum Elementary in Salem, IN. Great animal art with fun facts about the animal. They are all around the school. Art is all around us.

The past two weeks have been amazing because I got to spend a little time at a magical place called Huntertown Elementary School. The teachers there are amazing, thoughtful, and loving “life changers.” The students…well all I can say is that the Wildcats know the lifelines of kindness, respect, and empathy. Casey Stansifer, their fearless leader is someone I hope to be just like when I grow up; supportive, encouraging, and kind with high expectations. I had the pleasure of working with grade level teams, special areas, and their Leadership Ambassadors (chosen 5th grade leaders). Today I had the pleasure of attending their Wing Ding, where they recognize students who show this month’s Lifeline (kindness). I even got a little special thank you from their Ambassadors. Again…what a magical place. If you want to see a piece of our future, and feel great about the education of our children, just give Huntertown a visit. They always steal my heart and give me joy when I’m here.

Summer Institute is only a couple of weeks away!! Have you signed up yet? We can’t wait to see you there!
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