Welcome warriors!
It's #BlackHistoryMonth & we are examining the Power of Being the "first" led by your Core Warriors!
But 1st...introductions!
Please share who you are, how & where you "gladiate" for students!
#EduGladiators
First timer?
It's fun & easy to jump right in & share your thoughts or ask more Qs! Here's how...
Qs drop as Q1...Q2...& you answer A1...A2...
Don't forget to include #EduGladiators hashtag & follow
@EduGladiators where ALL of our Qs drop from!
A1: First is terrifying looking forward and powerfully inspirational looking back on it. I conducted a read-aloud about Jackie Robinson in our library this month, for example.
#EduGladiators
A1 I think the impact of being the first to accomplish something usually ends up being recorded in history because the first person is unique/stands out #edugladiators
A1: Being the first means you’re an innovator, a risk-taker, a leader. You’re taking steps into the unknown knowing the result will be either failure or a game changer. You’re willing to fail and stand out for the sake of improving the lives of others. #tmgenius#edugladiators
Being first means freedom from fear of "wrong answers". No path = no right or wrong answers. Just new ways to discover, problem-solve, and trouble-shoot.
#EduGladiators
Good morning from a frosty Utah! Belinda, Assistant Principal and newly appointed principal for 19-20, checking in! Ready to Learn and Grow! #EduGladiators
So true John! It’s takes so much courage to be the first usually because the first has a vision or conviction not commonly held by their peers or community. #EduGladiators
Being the first is a challenge. Fear of the unknown can cripple individuals; however, perseverance through the struggle can result in dramatic impacts and garnish support. You need to empower followers. #EduGladiators
A1: To be the first to accomplish something has a two-fold impact:
*On self: Lessons are learned, you grow, and come out stronger for meeting the challenge.
*On others: Now it's known that it CAN be done, so others are embolden to attempt it as well.
#EduGladiators
A1) The support of your loved ones and support systems are often not shared when you are the first. They too bear a great burden on the journey and should be recognized. Wouldn’t make it without them!!! #edugladiators
A1 Doing something first means you did it afraid! It means you overcame, persevered or took a stand! The impact of being first shows you have grit determination and a fire in your belly! #edugladiators
A1: Being the first means that you were a trailblazer. Achieving something that has never been done is often admirable and worthy of respect. #EduGladiators
A1. Sometimes those who go "first" give a voice to others who have the same idea, but lack the courage to take the first step. The power of the one who goes first is in the exponential influence of their first action through followers. #EduGladiators
10 years ago I did a final exam science portfolio as my grad thesis. The next semester the English department replicated my project and both of us have done it. It’s leaving a legacy of sorts. It changes/challenges the status quo. #EduGladiators
A1: being 1st can be scary and mortivating at the same time. Willingness to step out and accomplish will help others to see their own potential and take chances too. #EduGladiators
A1) Those that were the first demonstrate amazing courage, persistence & determination. Being separated from others they took a risk & put themselves at risk for what they believed. #EduGladiators
Being the first can be frightening and empowering at the same time. Remember when you were young and bravely raised your hand to go first in class to do something big when no one else would raise their hand? I still feel that thrill. #EduGladiators
A1 We have to admire the passion and grit to face challenges of anyone who experiences being the first at something...we may talk the talk, but they walk it! #edugladiators
I’m also reflecting on the Jackie Robinson story and why he was the “first.” Was it because he was a great ball player or because the white system knew they could profit off of his playing? #edugladiators
Being the first will also lead to a path of criticism and hardships from those around you, because are presenting something that is foreign to their reality by challenging the #StatusQuo#edugladiators
A1: Being the “first” isn’t easy especially if you may not receive the recognition of doing something great. Layers to being the “first” & requires deep intrinsic motivation to do what you want even if others can’t see your vision or acknowledge your choice. #EduGladiators
A1. The impact of going first is deeply personal. You've saw something so troubling that you HAD to tackle it and solve it. That liberates the part of you that was weighed down in the first place. That, in turn, makes future problems seem more solvable.
#edugladiators
A2: It is important to honor the first, not with an
"I'm going to do it better",
but with an
"I'm going to do it also and perhaps further."
#edugladiators
A1. Bring the first excited us because it creates a new standard of what can be done. From the silliness of the Guinness Book of Records to the awe of the first moon landing to @BarackObama’s powerful inauguration address, we see new possibilities. #EduGladiators
A2: We pay it forward by keeping the legacy alive. Supporting those who may be afraid to see the possibilities in their lives. We can't all be 1st, but we can help others to have a 1st. #edugladiators
True. Often the admiration we give them, doesn't come till they are long gone. In their own lives, they may not feel that positive regard.
#EduGladiators
A2: the impact is that we gain valuable perspective to move forward. We pay it forward by not reducing the complexity of their leadership to a bumper sticker. #EduGladiators
A1: This makes me think of Royal Robins, famous rock climber with many 1st time accolades. He took risks, pushed boundaries, and gave the next generations solid footing from which to propel themselves. #edugladiators
A2: Standing on the shoulders of giants can help us see things from broader perspectives. We pay this forward by supporting others as they create their own visions. #EduGladiators
In reply to
@EduGladiators, @D4Griffin3, @BrendanFetters, @mgrosstaylor, @Rdene915, @Maverikedu12, @cskiles80, @SaneeBell, @mccoyderek
Love the word choice here! To embolden! I would add synonyms such as: to empower, and to encourage. All of our children need role models that look like them and that understand them. #RepresentationMatters#EduGladiators
A1: To be the first to accomplish something has a two-fold impact:
*On self: Lessons are learned, you grow, and come out stronger for meeting the challenge.
*On others: Now it's known that it CAN be done, so others are embolden to attempt it as well.
#EduGladiators
A2 - It makes you brave! If their leadership is solid, you get to challenge them to create something even more amazing! Supporting and working alongside will also spur you, motivate you and teach you how to take risks as well! #edugladiators
A2: Continuing their legacy, recognizing the struggles it took to get them to a point of being “the first” and taking their lead in knowing the hard work and failures we put in now are making a better world/education/profession for those coming in the future #edugladiators
A2: For me, I see the door that's been opened, & the greatness of the one or ones who opened it, & am inspired/humbled. To pay that forward is my next step. What doors can I open for others? Can I build a door where none exists? Can I hold one open for others? #edugladiators
A2 The only way to pay it forward is to keep on keeping on. It’s easy to conform and continue to support the status quo but that defeats the purpose. In order to continue the legacy of those that worked so hard to create change, we must challenge the status quo. #EduGladiators
A2 it helps to build confidence, to draw upon the strength of others as you find your own way and then using the support, can take the next step, and lead others, #edugladiators
In reply to
@EduGladiators, @D4Griffin3, @PaulONeill1972, @BrendanFetters, @mgrosstaylor, @Maverikedu12, @cskiles80, @SaneeBell, @mccoyderek
A2 We pay it forward by living, walking, and working with integrity...the challenges aren't over, and there are others looking at us to do what's right #EduGladiators
And, dominant culture creates the narrative with “firsts” that if you just try hard enough you will overcome great odds. That’s where the “bootstrap” mentality begins #EduGladiators
A2 The only way to pay it forward is to keep on keeping on. It’s easy to conform and continue to support the status quo but that defeats the purpose. In order to continue the legacy of those that worked so hard to create change, we must challenge the status quo. #EduGladiators
A2. Standing on the shoulders of giants is a big responsibility, too. We have to honor the work it took to open those doors, and be a part of the forward motion. If you aren't moving forward, you're going backward. #edugladiators
Those that join from the start have an energy and a purity of purpose as the architects of change. Those that follow a movement may be less inclined to think for themselves. #edugladiators
A2: we pay it forward by remembering the sacrifice of others. The first opens the door so that we can continually grow and be agents of change! #EduGladiators
There's an aspect of humility that goes with standing on giants. Respecting the barriers that were broken in order for you stand here and advance that cause requires a humble heart *but* also a warrior spirit that recognizes "we're not done yet"
#edugladiators
We pay it forward by continuing to innovate. We stand on someone else's shoulders b/c that person took risks to make something happen. We must do the same.
#EDUgladiators
There's an aspect of humility that goes with standing on giants. Respecting the barriers that were broken in order for you stand here and advance that cause requires a humble heart *but* also a warrior spirit that recognizes "we're not done yet"
#edugladiators
A2. We pay forward the sacrifices and courage of others by aspriring to excellence and living with integrity. I think often of my grandparents who left everything so that my family could have a better life. I try to honor them each day as an educator. #EduGladiators
A3) This quote by #JackieRobinson always stands out to me because he knew the road was going to be tough as he championed a cause that was greater than himself. He opened doors that should never have been closed. #EduGladiators
A2 Establishing a positive culture where failure is considered part of the process is a way to pay it forward. Keep an open mind and don’t be critical. #EduGladiators
A2) The shoulders of those giants never tire-there for people to stand upon always. We pay forward by continuing to grow, question, celebrate & dig deep to continue to move forward. #EduGladiators
A3: Creating a culture of risk-taking, innovating, and following personal passions and strengths of individual teachers. Developing a mindset where everyone is a leader and giving them the opportunity to lead, no matter how loud or quiet their form of leadership is #edugladiators
A3: Those of us protecting the status quo need to get out of the way of new ideas and innovation. We often find ourselves blocking new stuff to protect our egos and power. That’s what I’m chewing on #EduGladiators
A2 standing on the shoulders of giants is an honor and makes you want to continue the legacy. It also makes you feel that that you aren’t alone...often taking that first step is a lonely process. #EduGladiators
A2: Those following the “1st” have a huge advantage. They benefit from knowing where the starting point is from which to move beyond. They have a responsibility to bring others forward through their own journey. #edugladiators
A2- honor their message but the giants pushed and believed in us to do in with our voice in our way and their message + belief + being ourselves = honor #EduGladiators
Following your dreams is costly. It may cost you money, friendships, hard work, energy, time, and eschewing the “Nah, I’m good. I can stay where I am.”
But...
Like Ortberg says, “If you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat.” #edugladiators
A3) #BarackObama has a very powerful response to this question. If we do not keep asking questions and dreaming we will settle for the #StatusQuo. #EduGladiators
A3- Society needs to be willing to embrace and empower those that come after the first as it is just as important to make a movement and a change for our future. It can start with just a few people; make that ripple effect. #edugladiators
A3: We have to be the change - we have to be willing to take steps to change ourselves and help those around us change themselves. We just need to get out of the way. Travel a different path to eleminate the staus quo. #EduGladiators
A3 For me, it’s staying true to myself. You can’t pretend to be an advocate for change and equity if you cannot be yourself. Challenging the status quo is a movement that starts within. Know your worth, live your worth, and you will inspire others. #EduGladiators
Yes! This is not only dominant culture in US, this approach is unique to US and some other countries. Not all cultures around the world hold this idea. #EduGladiators
A3: By devoting time to reflection and asking questions... instead of focusing on who does the work “first” shift the focus to doing the best work for kids! #EduGladiators
In reply to
@EduGladiators, @D4Griffin3, @BrendanFetters, @mgrosstaylor, @Rdene915, @Maverikedu12, @cskiles80, @SaneeBell, @mccoyderek
A3: Status quo looses status immediately when it stands in the way of progress, of helping others, of what is truly better for those we serve. I see where doors are if closed, and where they need to be if non existent, & then I get to work on those dreams. #EduGladiators
A1. Doing something first means you held on to hope when it was fragile. You stepped out of the crowd as they tried to pull you back it. You braved a sea of fear and doubt, letting your dreams and perseverance sail you to a new beginning. #edugladiators
A2 I’m on a Steinbeck kick right now: once the glory of the idea has taken place, the group can build and extend it. .. and when we do we honor night the idea and the mind and heart of who had it. #EduGladiators
A4: We must motivate and inspire students to be leaders. Teach them the importance of striving to be the first to break down barriers. Others will follow them as well. #EduGladiators
A1. Doing something first means you held on to hope when it was fragile. You stepped out of the crowd as they tried to pull you back in. You braved a sea of fear and doubt, letting your dreams and perseverance sail you to a new beginning. #edugladiators
A4: By teaching Ss empathy, showing them different perspectives & also teaching them leadership skills so that they have the mindset and the tools necessary to make change.
#EduGladiators
A4: Don't sugar coat what it takes to be the "1st" at anything. There's blood, sweat, & tears involved so grit & resiliency are important to instill in our Ss. We need to inspire AND prepare them for the long road to being the "1st." #edugladiators
A3: I think this speaks to a Growth Mindset. Being open to new information and new shift in paradigm as the reality of a landscape changes by boundary pushing. #edugladiators
A4: continue to share the stories of those who were 1st. Help our littles to learn that through perservernce and positive mindset they can accomplish what they want. They may not be 1st, but it will be a 1st for them. #edugladiators
Say YES,
Yes, they can.
Yes, I can help & support.
Yes, I will stand by you.
Yes, you are capable.
Yes, you *need* to do this.
YES.
Just YES.
#edugladiators
A4. We instill courage and inspire action in students when we empower them to believe in their ideas and "be the change they wish to see in the world". Helping Ss (and Ts) find the leader inside of them is powerful. #edugladiators
A4 In order to inspire our students to embrace being the first while advocating for positive change we must show them that they ARE relevant, that their ideas matter, and that success can be achieved by all. Start with your classroom libraries! #EduGladiators
I’m wondering how we can dig into and learn more about those firsts. Learning that Rosa Parks wasn’t really the first was mind blowing for me. How many other Claudette Colvins are out there? #edugladiators
A4: By returning to the original work as we continue to evaluate our practices. By being informed and educated about the history behind the legacies. #EduGladiators
In reply to
@EduGladiators, @D4Griffin3, @BrendanFetters, @mgrosstaylor, @Rdene915, @Maverikedu12, @cskiles80, @SaneeBell, @mccoyderek
A4 It's not just about honoring them with a holiday, pat on the back, etc...Make everyday the day that you empower and champion for others...honor them with your actions #EduGladiators
A3 We have to share the ideas and then remind people they have everything they need to tailor it. We have to be explicit about it: This is an idea; it does not have to be replicated. The only thing which needs to be replicated is moving forward with an idea. #EduGladiators
A4 To inspire action in our students we need to teach them empathy and understanding of others. They need to learn about the world with the world to truly understand #edugladiators
A4: We need to give Ss opportunities to know the history to see what part of the work that is left speaks to them. Most of us draw courage from knowing we do not have to fight alone. #edugladiators
A2 I’m on a Steinbeck kick right now: once the glory of the idea has taken place, the group can build and extend it. .. and when we do we honor the idea and the mind and heart of who had it. #EduGladiators
A2 I’m on a Steinbeck kick right now: once the glory of the idea has taken place, the group can build and extend it. .. and when we do we honor the idea and the mind and heart of who had it. #EduGladiators
This is true. Without grit and resiliency, many will give up. Looking back at the past, there's a romanticism to being "first" that isn't real.
##EduGladiators
A4: Don't sugar coat what it takes to be the "1st" at anything. There's blood, sweat, & tears involved so grit & resiliency are important to instill in our Ss. We need to inspire AND prepare them for the long road to being the "1st." #edugladiators
Being "first" isn't easy esp for our Ss. We need to clear the path and step back to let them lead, but not step too far: encourage, cheer, and champion them as they go. They may move forward or sideways or even backward and we must be there for them no matter what. #EduGladiators
And to go a step further, we need to critically assess our curriculum taught in schools. Usually black history is only a chapter at most & surface level. #EduGladiators
In watching @HiddenFigures I was angry that the contributions and struggle of these women was nowhere to be found in my textbooks or from my Ts. I also wondered how many stories like it remain #hidden#edugladiators
In reply to
@3_DLeadership, @D4Griffin3, @HiddenFigures
And designed to protect whiteness. I was actually reflecting on how we teach the holocaust vs American history in regards to black folx. When we teach the holocaust, we center the Jewish experience, and potentially LGBT folx. We don’t center the German experience #edugladiators
A4 We must support their confidence. We have to give students opportunities to move forward with an idea or they won’t learn to ignore roadblocks, naysayers, doubt. It’s in the daily experience and it is possible. We must find the ideas, tailor them, and try. #EduGladiators
However, when it comes to America, we develop curriculum to avoid white kids feelings of guilt learning about how many of their ancestors profited and benefited from the dehumanization of black folx #edugladiators
By instilling in Ss a sense of perspective through examination of past journeys, but also igniting their sense of wonder about breaking the “glass ceiling” and propelling forward. Ultimately, it’s a mixture of drive and grit. #EduGladiators
That’s the real issue here. It’s not that we spend a unit or a month on it. It’s that when we do focus, we worry more about the feelings of the white kids than giving folx an accurate portrayal #edugladiators
As #EduGladiators we have to demand more form textbook/tech companies providing curriculum. But it takes having culturally aware &/or diverse leadership in districts to see there is a need in the first place. #EduGladiators
In reply to
@mexusmx, @3_DLeadership, @D4Griffin3, @HiddenFigures
Just like when we teach on pilgrims, we tend to glorify white folx instead of listening to the perspectives of those who were negatively impacted #edugladiators
A4) Moving beyond the idea that a finite number of days contains enough time to learn about the the why, how & impact the brave firsts have made. #EduGladiators
Just wondering about the declining value of an economics degree from Boston U given their most notable alum constantly displays a stunning lack of financial sense. @BostonUMBA#EduGladiators
I saw a book list recently for picture books featuring black children that weren't about baseball, buses, or boycotts. It made me reflect on my library, and while I have some great quality books, the black narrative seems pretty narrowly represented. #edugladiators
In reply to
@mgrosstaylor, @mexusmx, @3_DLeadership, @D4Griffin3, @HiddenFigures
Honestly, as a Jew, I feel this deeply. What would happen if every time I tried to engage in the holocaust I was asked to be patient and tell stories in a way to not make Germans “feel bad” #edugladiators
Agreed!!!!!!! Black people are so much more than just sports and music! We have to be careful how we are priming black Ss for future options & also how we are being reflected to the dominant culture. #EduGladiators
In reply to
@Howells_Owls, @mexusmx, @3_DLeadership, @D4Griffin3, @HiddenFigures
When I work through the “prominent people” exercise with students, I ask S to avoid sports/entertainment if they can. It creates interesting dialogue when they recognize that entertaining white folx is 1 of the only ways marginalized groups can attain “prominence” #edugladiators
In reply to
@mgrosstaylor, @Howells_Owls, @mexusmx, @D4Griffin3, @HiddenFigures
So sad that I missed #edugladiators chat this morning. I can tell it was a great one! I don't remember when I have been so inspired by comments and when I have retweeted so much. I'll be there next week!
Thanks Tyler for articulating the “struggle” Blacks face each day in class & life. We have been conditioned to lessen our qualities/attributes as not to make dominant culture feel uncomfortable. The pervasiveness of systemic racism & discrimination is exhausting. #EduGladiators
I see it. This has to be the change. And to me, this where I value “last.” Because I want to work towards the person who experiences this last. On THAT day (probably in 3026 as @ValeriaBrownEdu predicts) then we can celebrate! #edugladiators
In reply to
@mgrosstaylor, @D4Griffin3, @ValeriaBrownEdu
