I'm not speeding...I'm qualifying

thoughts and updates about my life as a husband and father, a friend, and a school president

Monday, January 03, 2011

Growing Pains

Please answer the following questions. about image seven in the Habitudes book.

1. Read Mark 4:26-32. If the man's job is to prepare the soil and plant the seed, how can we compare this job to ours as leaders who want to grow people?

2. What does it mean to create a healthy "environment" in our organization?

3. What are some of the major changes that our school has made in the last couple of years? What are some changes that you have made in your specific role at ACS? Are we being effective?

posted by Craig @ 1:22 PM  

28 Comments:

  • At 3:07 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. The seeds we plant are not only seeds of knowledge, they are lessons for a lifetime of service to God.

    2. A healthy environment means one in which children can feel protection and support, positive reinforcement, and loving acceptance.

    3. One of the major changes that has impacted me is the implementation of "Bible themes". It really brings into focus our main purpose. One extra role I have taken on is teaching 5th grade History. It has been challenging, and has stretched my own personal research and learning. In my opinion, our staff has grown and matured in kingdom living. I attribute some of this to our being drawn closer by the trials and suffering at the beginning of the year. Debbie S.

     

  • At 11:22 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    First of all, I would like to say that the picture that went with this chapter is by far my favorite of either of the books we have read. I think we should get extra credit if we dress up like that boy at the next faculty meeting.

    1. Preparing soil to grow people-----one thought that keeps coming to my mind is the growth process. Think about the seed moving through different stages. It can be frustrating (after doing so much work to soften and fertilize the soil) to have to wait so long to see the fruits of your labor. It seems like you should see results immediately. It also seems like you "deserve" results after putting so much effort in. But we can't grow a seed without the sun. And that is out of our control. Hmmm...out of our control. We have to wait for God's timing. I've never liked that much. But remember that the seed had to go through a period of growth beneath the ground----a period of growth that we cannot even see. Don't give up. It's happening. And some seeds sprout before others. Right? I am obviously imagining students growing in the "soil" of our school/classrooms. Don't give up on them. Their growth may just still be beneath the soil where you can't see it.

    2. A healthy environment-----that's what it's all about, right? That's what we are trying to create. That's why people will pay thousands of dollars for their kids to be around us. They want a healthy environment. Being healthy is a choice and one that must be made over and over again. Our healthy environment comes from a team spirit. A sense of humility is also vital---recognizing that you may not always be right, that others have outstanding things to offer, that you are not entitled to more than you get just because you work hard.

    3. Changes at ACS---the technology has been a big change. I have seen the teachers try to utilize their new equipment to enhance the classroom experience to the best of their abilities. I do think that more training opportunities are key to fully reaping the benefits of having such technology available to us.

    My job description has vastly changed in the last couple of years. I greatly enjoy providing support for teachers as well as students. Helping plan elementary chapel has been the latest change in what I do. Chapel has become something I really look forward to and I think a lot of the students feel the same way.

    Jana Beck

     

  • At 11:23 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    First of all, I would like to say that the picture that went with this chapter is by far my favorite of either of the books we have read. I think we should get extra credit if we dress up like that boy at the next faculty meeting.

    1. Preparing soil to grow people-----one thought that keeps coming to my mind is the growth process. Think about the seed moving through different stages. It can be frustrating (after doing so much work to soften and fertilize the soil) to have to wait so long to see the fruits of your labor. It seems like you should see results immediately. It also seems like you "deserve" results after putting so much effort in. But we can't grow a seed without the sun. And that is out of our control. Hmmm...out of our control. We have to wait for God's timing. I've never liked that much. But remember that the seed had to go through a period of growth beneath the ground----a period of growth that we cannot even see. Don't give up. It's happening. And some seeds sprout before others. Right? I am obviously imagining students growing in the "soil" of our school/classrooms. Don't give up on them. Their growth may just still be beneath the soil where you can't see it.

    2. A healthy environment-----that's what it's all about, right? That's what we are trying to create. That's why people will pay thousands of dollars for their kids to be around us. They want a healthy environment. Being healthy is a choice and one that must be made over and over again. Our healthy environment comes from a team spirit. A sense of humility is also vital---recognizing that you may not always be right, that others have outstanding things to offer, that you are not entitled to more than you get just because you work hard.

    3. Changes at ACS---the technology has been a big change. I have seen the teachers try to utilize their new equipment to enhance the classroom experience to the best of their abilities. I do think that more training opportunities are key to fully reaping the benefits of having such technology available to us.

    My job description has vastly changed in the last couple of years. I greatly enjoy providing support for teachers as well as students. Helping plan elementary chapel has been the latest change in what I do. Chapel has become something I really look forward to and I think a lot of the students feel the same way.

    Jana Beck

     

  • At 12:44 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1.I think one of our key responsibilities is to offer guidance and support to our students using our own experiences and our own vision. The responsibility to grow is on the student; we can’t force them to mature. However, we can define appropriate, educational boundaries for them in school; we can share about our personal experiences and how we handled them with God; we can learn about them and show them compassion. Just as a gardener can only offer safety and nourishment, so can we only foster a safe environment and give the best guidance we can; the rest is up to them.

    2.I believe a healthy is environment is one that is dedicated to learning and is safe for ideas. I think a school should be a secure place for children to explore and discuss what they are learning with their peers and teachers. The best way to accomplish that is through good communication across the board. We should be able to communicate in a way that is honest, straightforward and pleasant so that everyone feels that they can be open with each other and work towards shared knowledge and understanding.

    3.I obviously can’t speak much about change considering that this is my first year, but I can say that I came to the school with plans to build up on the success of my predecessors. Amber Hale and Billie Harvey obviously did a great job with the theatre program in the past and it has been my intent from the very beginning to build upon what they have done and push our capabilities to new heights.

    Jared Strange

     

  • At 6:49 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. Preparing the soil and planting the seed are the necessary and preliminary steps to harvest. They are also the steps containing hope, faith, vision, and little concrete. We never know when a "flower" may pop up to reward us.

    2. A garden has many kinds of plants. The beans need poles to climb. The okra and corn need to be where they do not keep the sun from the carrots and other short plants. And, they all "bloom where they are planted." We should take our places and do our jobs without worrying about someone else's job. If we work together, we will be a lovely garden.

    3. Year 1 was major change: new school, new town, new "audience." Year 2's big change was beginning to work on PBLs. Year 3 is more PBL and now Smartboard with more on the way. Talk about learning curve!
    For the technology changes to be successful, we really need more training with time to digest and implement at least some of what we learn.

    I love working at ACS. My brain is working so hard at keeping up, it is either aging me or keeping me young. I'm galloping along trying to keep it.

    I appreciate all you are trying to do for us and with us.
    Kathleen Brooks

     

  • At 10:21 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. The farmer in Mark 4 does his job faithfully and still, like me, does not fully understand how the crop eventually pushes through to reveal itself for harvest. We must continue to trust in God's rain, sunshine, wind, and cold to ensure growth for the seeds we plant.
    2. We as "planters" have a sort of co-op environment to help one another know about the best times and methods to till the soil, plant the seed, water and fertilize it with loving kindness, and protect it from the enemies that may try to damage, uproot, or kill it. We are blessed to have strong, attentive administration and faculty peers to help each of us productively labor in our fields.
    3. The biggest change for me has been the pain and desire that has accompanied our access to new technology and PBL. As culture has changed, I truly have felt the pain of not feeling as successful as in years past with the product of my efforts at teaching. This pain certainly drove me to want to change the methods used for many years into something more audience friendly. Therefore, I have embraced PBL, the smartboard, and all of the technologies that we have available, but I still feel rather inept on the knowledge level. I look forward to more opportunities for training and more time to use "trial and error" to increase my skills and confidence. (see page 33)
    Phyllis Gilbreth

     

  • At 10:52 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    I love the way Mark 4 describes the man, not as a master gardener, but just doing what he knows to do, and trusting God's created process of Nature to make results happen. We can act in faith, doing what we know how to do. I think we should want to strive to do it as right as possible, and want to learn.

    I really like Kathleen's analogy of blooming where we're planted, whether we're carrots or okra, and working together for a lovely garden to God's glory and purposes.

    Creating a healthy environment means being responsible for how my attitudes and actions affect my little area plus all the ones I touch. It means sharing things I think could enrich someone else's area, and respecting their knowledge and boundaries, encouraging and giving them room to bloom and maybe even helping that process if there's something God moves me to contribute.

    Like, like the part from Jana at the end of Par. 2.

    I appreciate the efforts that are going into our environment--hiring people who fit the culture we want to be, the provisions of new technology, the conscious movements toward spiritual and academic training and improvement, and the excitement and anticipation we have for the new and the better. I remember that quote that there is no standing still. IF you're not moving forward, you're going backward :-)! Thank you, Craig for encouraging us to set goals, praying for us, and caring whether we reach them. Lord, give us energy to keep moving forward!

    Part of environment, too, means caring a lot about who becomes a part of it, and trusting God to make those decisions clear. Sometimes it means taking a risk on new students, but God knows which ones we need and which ones will be blessed because of us. It can't just be about the ones who are most Christian, most able or who need the least amount of help, academically, socially, or monetarily.

    Major changes are mentioned above, and the tweaking of our events (such as Auction, Awards Night, and Family Party, recitals, talent show) to be more about family and fun, which fits Abilene, and is increasing participation/attendance.
    I"m trying in my role to communicate better with teachers about tours, etc. I'm trying to be very open and welcoming to new softwares, and ideas/products that may streamline, update, and enrich what we do and offer, and to remember that although tours take a WHOLE LOT of time and effort, that getting people on campus to see our teachers, classrooms, and students is the absolute best advertising we can get, and it costs nothing more. After they come, they will talk with their friends and family, and even if they're not a fit for us, we get exposure out of it!

    I think we're being effective...and it's a journey!
    Jean

     

  • At 10:53 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    I love the way Mark 4 describes the man, not as a master gardener, but just doing what he knows to do, and trusting God's created process of Nature to make results happen. We can act in faith, doing what we know how to do. I think we should want to strive to do it as right as possible, and want to learn.

    I really like Kathleen's analogy of blooming where we're planted, whether we're carrots or okra, and working together for a lovely garden to God's glory and purposes.

    Creating a healthy environment means being responsible for how my attitudes and actions affect my little area plus all the ones I touch. It means sharing things I think could enrich someone else's area, and respecting their knowledge and boundaries, encouraging and giving them room to bloom and maybe even helping that process if there's something God moves me to contribute.

    Like, like the part from Jana at the end of Par. 2.

    I appreciate the efforts that are going into our environment--hiring people who fit the culture we want to be, the provisions of new technology, the conscious movements toward spiritual and academic training and improvement, and the excitement and anticipation we have for the new and the better. I remember that quote that there is no standing still. IF you're not moving forward, you're going backward :-)! Thank you, Craig for encouraging us to set goals, praying for us, and caring whether we reach them. Lord, give us energy to keep moving forward!

    See below for part 2
    Jean

     

  • At 10:54 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    This thing said my comment was too long to process, so I'm putting it in 2 parts--

    Part of environment, too, means caring a lot about who becomes a part of it, and trusting God to make those decisions clear. Sometimes it means taking a risk on new students, but God knows which ones we need and which ones will be blessed because of us. It can't just be about the ones who are most Christian, most able or who need the least amount of help, academically, socially, or monetarily.

    Major changes are mentioned above, and the tweaking of our events (such as Auction, Awards Night, and Family Party, recitals, talent show) to be more about family and fun, which fits Abilene, and is increasing participation/attendance.
    I"m trying in my role to communicate better with teachers about tours, etc. I'm trying to be very open and welcoming to new softwares, and ideas/products that may streamline, update, and enrich what we do and offer, and to remember that although tours take a WHOLE LOT of time and effort, that getting people on campus to see our teachers, classrooms, and students is the absolute best advertising we can get, and it costs nothing more. After they come, they will talk with their friends and family, and even if they're not a fit for us, we get exposure out of it!

    I think we're being effective...and it's a journey!
    Jean

     

  • At 10:55 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    OK--clearly I'm not smart enough to know why this posted my comments 3 times...apologies!!!
    Jean

     

  • At 2:42 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1 1.I really liked Jana’s comment…"But we can't grow a seed without the sun. And that is out of our control. Hmmm...out of our control. We have to wait for God's timing. I've never liked that much. But remember that the seed had to go through a period of growth beneath the ground----a period of growth that we cannot even see." Jana has recently encouraged me to look at how far the art department has come rather than to compare it to programs with more teachers and funding. I tend to want to rush and see results, but this chapter reminded me that I need to slow down and listen more and watch for growth. So much is out of my control. I need to keep giving it to God the one that can truly bring growth!

    2. I love Debbie’s answer about a healthy environment. It’s where we all feel safe and loved. We cannot grow in an atmosphere of fear. Open communication is a necessity.I appreciate the healthy environment you all are creating with God's help.

    3. I love the new technology, but I agree that I need more training. My students love it when they get to hit the answers and draw on the Smart board, but I know there’s so much more I could be doing with it. I hope to get more training this summer!
    Kathy M

     

  • At 11:11 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. As teachers, we need to set the foundation for learning academically, spiritually, for helping guide the students as they grow and transition.

    2. An environment where the students feel safe and protected yet challenged. They receive positive encouragement and reinforcement. And they see positive role models from us the teachers and staff.

    3. We have added more technology. More time spent as a whole group. More studies - books read together - and inservice to go over this. School theme. Implementing the technology in the class and the monthly themes is an area that I am working on this year. I think it is effective but there is still room for growth.
    Jackie H

     

  • At 3:00 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. As I read the other comments, I agree that so many times we plant, but we don't always see the bloom. However, we must keep planting. And, as I read Mark I couldn't help but feel that so much of this we must turn over to God. So much is out of our control; God is in control.
    2. I believe a healthy environment means creating an atmosphere where we and students feel comfortable taking risks. Towards this goal, I want the students to see that education is a journey we go on together, not just something we do to them. I think one of our great strenghts is the relationship we have with the majority of our students. I hope that no matter how large we grow, we never lose this aspect of ACS.
    3. I think my role at ACS flows in different directions in many ways according to what is needed. As far as new things at ACS, I concur with others: technology and the need for more training. For me, learning the new technology and feeling frustrated at times due to my lack of knowledge reminds me how students must feel in my class sometimes. So I think that the process of learning new things as teachers makes us better teachers because we remember what it feels like to be students. I also like the deliberate usage of Biblical themes. Kay

     

  • At 8:46 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. To prepare and plant, we must suggest, explain, motivate, enable and model for the people (students), but they themselves (with God's help) must do the growing.
    2. To create a healthy environment, we must be positive, set high standards, but also set students up for success so they will strive to reach higher standards, and emphasize teamwork rather than competition.
    3. I think in the time I have been here, we have focused more each year on spiritual growth and prayer with and for each other as a faculty. I really appreciate that, and I'm sure it benefits all of us and improves the quality of our school culture. The other big changes have been in technology, from making myself and the students use Smartmusic and Youtube in band, to learning sooo much myself in order to teach the BCIS class. I am not one of those people who welcome change, so it is good that I have been forced to learn how to use these new technologies. And many thanks to Bobette for helping me!
    Helen

     

  • At 12:46 PM , Anonymous Kim S. said...

    1. In order to grow our students we have to take the time to get to know them and cultivate an environment of motivation.

    2. The environment that is set in each classroom is hopefully one of acceptance and protection. If a student feels like he/she is able to answer a question without being ridiculed by a teacher or student that student will be more likely to participate.

    3. The biggest changes I've seen these last couple of years is in technology and willingness to try different programs. Without trying something you will never know if it works or not which is refreshing.

     

  • At 9:50 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. We can't just plant the seed and expect it to grow. We have to nurture, spend time with, love and be "kind" to the seed! Our students have to know we want them to do well, and we want to get to know them on a personal level for full growth to be achieved.
    2. Ditto to Jana Beck! I totally agree! We have to remember this is not just "A Job". This is our calling from God to be at ACS. We have a much higher expectation to love these kids and get to know them. We need to set boundaries, yet be kind and respectful to each and every student no matter what their challenges are. I taught with way toooooo many teachers in the public school system who were there for a paycheck. Maybe life hadn't been "fair" to them, maybe they didn't like teaching but were "sticking it out" or maybe it was expected of them to teach. In a large 5A school it wasn't always noticed by those outside the system. At ACS we need to all strive to be here and at our very best every day. More is expected of us here!
    3. I have stepped out of my "lab", or should I saw comfort zone and tried to learn technology this year. I have enjoyed learning about the board and delivering fresh ideas to the students via this great addition. The students enjoy getting out of their seats and being interactive with the board. Our school has done a great job in the technology department! Our kids are learning in new and exciting ways and will be ready to continue these challenges when they leave ACS.
    Lex Ann

     

  • At 12:02 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. Much preparation is required in myself on planting days...which is every day. My job is to plant something I am confidant has the ability to grow. I am to sow in integrity the best seed I possibly can, the truest truth I know. From there, my job is to watch and wait...not dig it up to check and see if it is growing.
    Psalm 126:5,6
    "Those who cry as they plant crops will sing at harvest time. Those who cry as they carry out the seeds will return singing and carrying bundles of grain."

    2. Our job as an organization is to enrich the "soil", our people, in all ways; to care for their needs physically and emotionally as well as spiritually making sure the atmosphere is attractive and welcoming.

    3. I like the changes in elementary chapel. I feel it is an engaging spiritual environment. I still feel young on campus in terms of perceiving change. Personally, I have dropped the walls and boundaries of what I feel is my job or my responsibility and with that has come a passionate love for the school as I have gotten to know it better and better. The more we communicate in teams and departments will increase our effectiveness working together rather than as individuals.

    Beth Ann

     

  • At 12:07 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    I love how Phyllis reminded us that the cold times are also necessary for growth, for spring to come.

     

  • At 8:37 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. Our students are going to grow. We have the unique opportunity to be intentional while they are under our watch – how we respond to them, how we point them to the Father whenever possible, how we love them even when they are unlovable. I pray for conviction when I am missing the mark!
    2. Creating a healthy environment is the “soil preparation.” Many have already expressed this beautifully – our soil should be safe, loving, challenging, bathed in prayer, and always honoring Jesus Christ.
    3. Let’s see, did someone mention TECHNOLOGY!! That’s definitely an area of major change. I also agree and am thankful that our school is first of all “holy ground” as we have a foundation firmly based on the Word. The biblical themes have been meaningful and carry over into my own personal walk with Christ. I am thankful for Godly leadership that continues to point us heavenward.

    Bobette

     

  • At 2:59 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. We are farmers! Planting seeds of knowledge and service and love, . . . unseen blooms perhaps, but that's when we get to use our imaginations.

    2. Working together, communicating, reaching out to one another, caring for one another as well as the students - that's a healthy ACS!

    3. For ACS as a whole, this will have to come as a parent and sub perspective. Technology, and better teamwork radiate outward to parents. This is seen and felt by them.

    Changes I have made in my role?Hmmmm. Geee. Is it fair to say all of it? Since I began after school started this year, it's all new, developing as we move forward with SAIL. To be effective, we must constantly evaluate our roles and activites and lessons, and then adapt, adapt, adapt.

    Sherry G

     

  • At 9:17 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. I have come to realize that I cannot force growth of a genuine nature. That is God's provenance. But it is MY God-given job to use all my skills to provide opportunities and conditions for physical, mental and spiritual growth to
    2. everyone I come in contact with, student, teacher and parents alike.
    3. Parent/student/school communications have changed drastically for the better. Being able to check grades, email teachers or parents as needed, having weekly communications from the admin. about what's going on at school. Wonderful.

    Changes in my role? Well, basics are still basics and research is still research, but integrating student-accessed technology has necessitated a new focus on developing the mindset to make Christian choices when presented with all the opportunities for information.

    Effective? I thank God daily that my children and I are growing in such healthy conditions as are fostered here at ACS.

    Marla

     

  • At 7:07 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    I enjoyed reading all of the other comments. I'm so blessed to work with people who are so committed and focused on walking with the Lord. It inspires me to continue in my walk and growth.

    I really like the parable about the growing seed. It is a reminder that what we do is so important to the kingdom. Every opportunity to model Christ in our words and actions will make an impact on others. I just need to love God and love people. He is the one who brings the increase - I don't need to worry about that. God puts us in situations and brings people into our lives for a reason. He has prepared good works in advance for us to do - that includes all that we do here at ACS.

    I think a healthy environment is one that is Christ centered. When we model Christ how can it not be? Love and communication are important for our environment as we deal with one another.

    One of the major changes that I see at ACS is the focus on spiritual things - themes, prayer, seeking God's blessing for our school, etc. Another major change is in technology. I think that the changes in technology and the culture of students has changed my role, both in the office and in the classroom.

    Susan

     

  • At 12:58 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1.One summer I went on a mission trip to Iowa. Everyday the preacher there would get up with a jars of seeds and tell us,"Don't get discouraged if no one seems to accept your message. Your job is to plant. It's God's job to produce the harvest." I've often thought about that when I couldn't see results of my work.
    2.I agree with Debbie about the healthy environment-a place where we feel accepted, protected, and loved.
    3. The technology changes are what have impacted me the most. I still need lots of instruction and practice, but it is great to still be learning.
    Cheryl

     

  • At 5:51 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. We have to prepare people like the land by planting Gods word. God works from there on the growing of a person.

    2. Healthy environment means a safe place for our kids where they are able to learn about God freely. If our children are going threw things we can get down on our knees and pray with them. A God centered environment.

    3. I think some of the major changes we have made is technology. I believe we are heading in the right direction with it, even though its a challenge to some of us.

    Lori L

     

  • At 6:18 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1.Our job is to get the soil ready for God to grow those seeds. Our part is important, but trusting God to do his part of growing those seeds is way more important.
    2. Creating a healthy "environment" is creating a place where we feel as safe to participate as our students should feel safe to participate in the classroom.
    3. Major changes include Rebweb, updates in computers, technology in the smart boards and even mastering a document camera. I think we are "becoming" effective. Like Jean said "It's a
    journey."
    Jan

     

  • At 2:02 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1) The thing that stuck out to me from Mark 4 was where it said "Night or day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows." That is a hard hitting point. The students show up everyday, and we need to too! I love that, and will remember that on days when I am tired!

    2)A healthy environment, to me, means a safe one both physically and emotionally. When children feel completely comfortable in their environment, it is easier to learn.

    3)I will go along with most and say technology is the biggest change I've seen lately. Even though I am learning along with everyone else, I am so glad we have it. I love when my public school teaching in-laws talk about some new technology their schools got, and I say, "I yeah, I love mine." They always look so surprised! (And now you can see how petty I am! :))
    Jennifer House

     

  • At 9:02 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    1. We are growing our future leaders. We must prepare, nurture, and tend to our students to get the results we are after. We also must keep in mind that the most beautiful gardens are not made in one season but, are a work in progress. Every year new additions are made. The roots must first take hold, the strength of the stem becomes stronger every year. And with patience and hard work you will be rewarded with the “bloom”. We can easily apply this to our school. We are adding technology and new programs, working to enrich our relationships with one another, and receive training to keep us on the cutting edge. We need to “prune” away the things that maybe aren’t a good fit for us; and continue to add (plant) and introduce new things every year to enrich our “soil“. We need to work our “soil”(school) fervently, pray, and believe Then in good faith, we can step back and let God do his amazing work and bless us with the harvest!

    2. Everyone pulling their own weight, doing their part, striving to be better everyday. We are blessed with many seasoned “gardeners” on our campus. We can learn from one another and grow with one another. We set the tone on our campus…if it is positive and uplifting, encouraging and nurturing we have done our job and we cant help but receive the blessing God has in store for us. Any gardener knows that the soil is the most important part. Much preparation, tilling , and fertilizing must occur before we are ready to plant, to me this is providing “the healthy environment”.

    3. We are adding and changing , this shows growth! We have added more dual credit classes, new technology, and are doing a better job of communicating with parents. We are enriching Chapel times to be praise and worship with a valuable learning time. Making this a time be excited about God and a great way to begin our day. Our PTO is showing a strong presence on campus and encouraging others to become involved. We have more opportunities to be together and grow during our inservice times. Our faculty meetings keep us up to date on coming events and give us a time to voice needs or prayer requests.
    I feel we are more connected as a group.
    Change is not always easy or comfortable for everyone. But, is very important for us to improve and move forward. This will give us a prominent place in our community which in turn, allows us to do kingdom work for our city.
    ~Angie

     

  • At 10:15 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

    We definitely have plenty of soil all around us. We have opportunities to plant and nurture seeds in students, families, co-workers, etc.. We can determine the the long time climate at our school.
    Our fruits of the spirit theme is really helping me purposefully talk about and look for those qualities.
    Major changes include leadership directions, technology,spititual renewal, PTO involvement and even our new AR program.
    Change creates a learning curve. After you get through the hard part - it was worth the effort!
    I like the example in the book about - "Let's not look at how we can get bigger, but how we can make it better - then bigger will come."
    Cindy

     

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