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From pep to renewal


The buzz of energy can be felt the minute you walk into my classroom. My room is not one of placidly sitting and listening. A quiet, monotone voice? Nope, won’t find that there either. I am usually the nucleus of the energy. Add the pep and enthusiasm of my team teacher, and second and fourth period become electrifying.  We both have a spring in our step. The kids don't stand a chance.

Today, after a very busy morning, I slowed it down a bit – more for my sanity than anything else. I turned half the lights off, spoke in a quieter voice, and slowed down my rate of speech. Funny thing, the kids followed my lead. There was less competing to tell me a life event related to our lesson. When they did share their ideas, they waited their turn. It was a successful and productive class.

I know the whole scene mentioned above will not happen all the time. It is not who I am. Oddly enough, after about ten minutes, it took me extra energy and effort to keep the slower pace. Regardless, my goal is to be aware at the energy I exude during class time and use it for the good of all of us.

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