Can't Be Measured

It Can’t Be Measured

What really matters cannot be measured or defined.  Data enables us to determine program strengths and opportunities for improvement.  Assessments can tell us what a kid knows or doesn’t know.  What really matters cannot be assessed:

·      How do you measure a teacher's smile that greets a shy child?

·      How do you assess joyful laughter from playing with a friend?

·      How do you record donated school supplies that will make a needy child’s day?

·      How do we collect that sense of accomplishment when a child learns something new?

·      How do you determine the effect of a comforting hug?

·      How do you benchmark the life long impact of a personal relationship between a teacher and student?

I am an advocate for data driven decision-making, but none of that matters to a child.  What matters to a child cannot be measured!  A warm smile and a tender hug connect with a child's heart.  The laughter of friendship will echo in their ears for years to come.  The self worth that comes from accomplishment changes lives.  Knowing that a teacher cared about them personally is what matters to a child.

Teachers make it matter when they lead with their hearts.  Children know they matter when we touch their hearts.   You make it matter because you care personally and deeply for every child that walks through the threshold your classroom.

Make it matter!  Care until is hurts.  Inspire learning.  Never give up and always remember we matter because we connect with the hearts of our students.    

As always, I feel privileged to call you my colleague.  More Importantly, I feel blessed to call you my friend.   Teach well my friend.