See the possibilities

This week, I discovered a fascinating video showing Anne Sullivan and her student, Helen Keller in which she explains how she taught Helen to speak.

Aren't you thankful that neither Helen Keller nor Anne Sullivan had fixed mindsets? That Helen did not see herself as indefinitely deaf and dumb? That Anne Sullivan was not bound to limited methods of instruction? Both were committed to doing whatever they needed to succeed. Each had a growth mindset.

In our inservice sessions at my school, we have talked a great deal about having a growth mindset. I have found myself asking the following questions:

• What if this year I choose to view my students through the lens of possibility rather than limit?
• What if I give my students permission to safely struggle and fail?
• What if the only label I give to my students is that of learner?

And the final two...

• What if I do these things with my teachers?
• What if I do it with myself?

I am looking forward to navigating this year with my mind set on growth.  

Quotes from Helen Keller:

"All the world is full of suffering. It is also full of overcoming."

"It is a terrible thing to see and have no vision."

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."