Initiative is often something I have to “gather up” when finding the time to write these blogs! While I enjoy sharing my thoughts and experiences, I also enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon nap! However, I do enjoy taking the initiative when it comes to developing new ways of educating students successfully!
As I have mentioned before in several of these blogs, my husband has always been the risk taker in our family. He not only takes the risks, he offers and gives support as we undertake each new venture. Neither one of us can stand to be stagnant. I see this trait in Michelle and Bria as well. Much of our free time is spent in planning improvements and projects. The draw- back is that we all have nights of “sleeplessness” because our brains won’t stop working out the plans and details.
I believe it is no small coincidence that I have chosen to live in Oklahoma. My husband informed me that it is the western states which have the governmental process that lets the people start petitions and “initiatives” when the local government isn’t taking the desired actions of the people. It is this “get‘er done” attitude among other things that causes me to love this state!
Lawton Academy is an example of what initiative can do. The very fact that our school exists without the help and blessings of the established educational institutions speaks of the results initiative can bring. Oh yes, risking and initiating something outside the box takes great commitment and faith. What makes it all possible is our “belief system.” It is far easier to take risks and to put in all the time and effort when you know in your heart that it is needed, it is possible, and it will benefit others.
My first-grade class is beginning to take their first steps in independence as they write their own compositions which will be graded. Some have already taken the initiative and drawn and written “love posters” for our class pet, Joey the parakeet. It is my duty now to help them use that creative initiative in the regular academic pursuits. Some will be quite successful, while others will need my prodding and encouraging. But isn’t that life in a nutshell? Leaders usually take the initiative while followers often have to be encouraged and prodded! So, I am witnessing the birth of some of the leaders of tomorrow! How lucky I am to be a teacher!
- Kay