"Acknowledge-Honor-Connect"

For the first time ever, each school district in our community gathered for an opening in-service! It is one more example of our recent efforts to share curriculum improvement efforts, resources, and energy to make sure we are continually improving. Our speaker, Mr. Mark Schaerenbroich, challenged each of us to make positive connections with students, staff, and parents in an effort to improve student achievement. He is an excellent presenter with a background in comedy that kept his message humorous and alive! He shared examples of teachers that inspired him and that exemplified the concepts of "acknowledge-honor-and connect". It made me reflect on those people and opportunities that are important to me and the reasons I chose education as my life's work.

The power of a positive attitude and importance of building positive relationships was a family value instilled quietly at home growing up. I had excellent role models in my parents, sister Jane, and brothers Tom and Tim- but it was a teacher that quantified things for me and caused me to look at life in a different way. Gary Swartz was my math teacher and basketball coach- but more importantly- the person that "acknowledged" my positive attitude and provided me with the tools needed to overcome adversity and be a leader. I have told Coach Swartz on several occasions that he is the reason I became a teacher, coach, and leader.

I "honor" those people in my life that have made a difference- whether it be my past teachers, siblings, parents, family members, or close friends- past and present. I asked our faculty to take time to honor the hard work of our support staff- from the custodians to the secretaries to the cooks- the people that make MCHS a great place to work and a welcoming learning environment.

The idea that making positive "connections" can have a positive influence on student achievement really got me fired up and validated much of what I believe in! I always tried to connect with students as a teacher and had the tremendous opportunity to teach a 9 week class called "I Can" while I was a social studies teacher at Coal City High School. I still will occasionally have a "30 something" former student shout across the check-out line at the grocery store; "Hey Coach Hal- I still have that I Can stuff we studied when I was a sophomore. I always say when someone asks how I'm doing 'Super-great, but I'll get better.'" The ability to connect with people and establish lasting relationships is important. Our staff needs to keep this in mind as we work through another school year- the old saying "kids don't care how much you know until they know how much you care about them" rings true!

As we work on improving Morris High School, the message from our opening day speaker should be on our minds. Principal Hussey challenged everyone to "Do Better Today" because it is with sustained effort that we will better prepare students for life after high school. We all realize we can do better- we also know we have developed the plans and framework to improve- now it is time to work those plans, measure the results, make the adjustments needed, and continue the momentum toward becoming the best we can be.

Take time to let those you care about know how important they are to you while you can!

"Nice Bike"