This came up during a conversation I had with her about one of my recent projects. Like all educators, my role as a Math & STEAM Instructional Coach involves a lot of projects and initiatives. Some of the projects I have are co-managing the elementary math pilot along with the other Math TOSAs, designing the 2017 Elementary Summer School program, creating an upcoming professional learning workshop for the SouthBay FOSS Collaborative on STEAM & NGSS, working on a new pilot program to bring maker carts to three elementary school sites, and writing a grant application to receive funding for additional maker carts. (No wonder I'm tired.) Another recent project I worked on that prompted this conversation I had with my boss was co-designing our district's February professional learning day examining the Next Generation Science Standards. For this PD Day, we identified four goals for the session:
- Diving into the Next Generation Science Standards (with an eye analyzing the similarities and differences with the 1998 science standards),
- Exploring the Crosscutting Concepts,
- Fostering an inquiry-based mindset (with an experience called the Skittles Experiment), and
- Discussing the direction of NGSS and potential new science curriculum for the district.
I have always considered R&R to be reflection and refinement, and I consistently engage in R&R with all I do. So, yes, I know that it's about progress. I focus on positivity and the progress I make in all I do. At the same time I recognize that I am passionate with all I do and always try to work towards perfection. So, where does that leave me? Where am I with the mantra with my belief in always working towards perfection?
Progress, Not Perfection? I added one one to that mantra. If you look at the image again you may notice that one word - IF.
Progress, If Not Perfection.
I will continue to work passionately towards perfection. And when I fall short I will reflect on the progress I've made - in the project, with my colleagues, and in myself. Progress, If Not Perfection.