Serving Others

As an example to my students, I must attempt to serve my peers (and others).
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• A few weeks ago, I was asked to assist one of my fellow teachers in revising an essay for her award candidacy, I welcomed the challenge.
• When I was asked to host a college intern for a few weeks, I felt it was my duty to pass on some modicum of expertise.
• When I was asked to host a second observer, I was honored to do so. 
• When I had the chance to help a peer with a video project for a college course project, it was my pleasure.
• When another teacher came to get help with a computer password, I tried to help out.
• When asked to have a student teacher visit our classroom to observe (after Spring Break), I welcomed the opportunity to serve.

I have come to a point in my career when I can balance grading and planning responsibilities without crowding my schedule.  I leave most of my work at school without taking it home.  So I can spare a few minutes or a couple of hours to help when someone needs me.

While I still don't get everything done every day, and while I usually still have a paper to grade or some supplies to put away, I try to serve others.  While I don't do so for credit or recognition - I'm actually pretty humble about it - I do want to demonstrate kindness to my students.  Not only should they develop skills in professionalism - greeting others, following directions, participating, and getting along - they should also develop the desire to empathize and perform acts of kindness.

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