Bring the Joy Back into Education

I love this expression of joy on my grandson's face! Who doesn't love seeing a baby discover something new? The look of wonder, surprise and joy is contagious. It's no surprise to teachers, particularly secondary teachers, that students' sense of wonder and passion for learning wanes as they  move into the higher grades, but does it have to?

How can we reignite the passion for learning? You know the old saying "it starts from the top"?It's absolutely true! In order for teachers to feel comfortable with stepping outside of the box and doing innovative things with their students, they need for their administrators to support it. Ideally, school leaders need to not only encourage and empower their staff for change, they should model bold leadership that builds a culture of staying relevant.

If you are a school leader:

  • Focus on building staff morale
  • Set aside time for FUN for your staff
  • Bring your teams together (multiple school staff should know one-another)
  • Have a suggestion procedure and encourage staff to make suggestions on improvements
  • Form a committee with ALL staff represented on vetting new ideas
  • Encourage inter-disciplinary connections and lesson implementations
  • Respect and honor your staff
  • Minimize the Must Do's as much as possible
  • Recognize staff for a job well done
  • BE PART OF THE TEAM! Roll up your sleeves and participate WITH them!


If you are a teacher or para-professional:

  • Design your student space to be inviting
  • Build positive relationships with students
  • Be accessible
  • Be genuine
  • Exude positive energy; they can feel it!
  • Always look for the best in in the student
  • Ask for feedback, what's working/not working?
  • Build in FUN! Don't be afraid t be goofy!
  • Allow personal choice for showing mastery
  • Stay relevant, join a PLN
  • Collaborate with other passionate teachers 
  • Teach the whole child, not just the curriculum!
  • Read inspiring articles on how to stay reflective and passionate about teaching.
How are your bringing back the joy?
Post a creative way that you are bringing joy back to your school or classroom to Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or youtube with #BringingJoyBack before September 16th, 2016 and possibly win $500.00 for ASCD online store.


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