Getting Unstuck #121: Looking at What's Best for Kids Now
Today on Getting Unstuck
Today we welcome Melissa Romano. Melissa is a collaborative leader and problem solver in and outside of her classroom. Having worked as an educator for more than 15 years, Romano is a recipient of the National Science Foundation’s Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), and the 2018 Montana Teacher of the Year. She is currently running for State Superintendent of Public Instruction in Montana.
The Essential Ideas
It critical for teachers to try and build relationships with students – to show the that they care – versus just trying to teach content.
COVID has really shown and shined a light on the the inefficiencies and the inequalities that existed in our education system. To counteract those, we must focus on personalized learning, and that is accomplished as much or more through emotional connections as it is through any educational tool.
Social and emotional learning has to be a big consideration in any discussion about what we want our graduating kids to know and be able to do. And related, a focus on mental health will play a positive role in retaining and recruiting teachers.
A positive quality public preschool experience, sets kids up to have success later in life.
Standardized assessments are only one small part of a larger picture.
Melissa’s platform for Montana State Superintendent of Education
Tired of chasing the next shiny thing? Then take a different approach to change.
I will be recommending that our group of educational leaders with whom I work read your book. I think the organization of the book lends itself to each learner/leader applying the concepts to their own change efforts. Everyone can apply the themes and leadership practices.
Your book is very timely. "Shifting" is needed as educational leaders work through new distance learning approaches for all students. Educators must balance educating students, while keeping staff and students healthy. There is fear on the part of many teachers to remain healthy as they go back to school. Their why is to inspire and ensure that students thrive emotionally, socially and academically.
— Patrick Sweeney, Leadership Coach / Retired Superintendent