MOT Groups

Thanks to Woodbury and Soule for inviting me to their groups. I first went to Woodbury and hung out, listening to the conversations. It was great to see the questions and thoughtful discussions that were happening. Most interesting was the PE teacher, who was so interested in discussing the book and the processes of thinking. It was as though this was providing him a window into the world of teaching that he had not considered before...especially in terms of all of the possibilities. Understanding what each is doing is such a powerful way to connect in our profession. They were talking about inferring and Pat had had them think about some quesitons before they came to the larger group. Many connected it to the teaching they were doing. Thinking this through and talking it through and giving teachers the time they need to process this is only one of the ways we will achieve sustainability with this initiative and keep it in the forefront.

I then made my way over to Soule. The energy there was fantastic! This is a model that I wish we could bottle and ship around the country!! The library was filled with teachers who had all come to the group prepared to talk and share and ask questions. There were three leaders, Rhonda, Karen Verry and Anna. What a dynamic combination as they all brought something completely different to the group. I wrote earlier in an e-mail that it reminds me of why I do what I do! The next question then becomes how do we help those along that are not as willing? How do we nudge them in the general direction of metacognition? Ultimately, I think it comes back to doing it ourselves and recognizing it within our own thinking so that we can take that experience and bring it back to our students.

Although these are two different formats, it is my sense that both are effective and perhaps even make sense for where each of the groups are at. Again, I am still looking forward and thinking what is next? How do we keep this energy and this focus alive as teachers continue to make their ways?

I am looking forward to Barron on Thursday. Perhaps you could all send the dates of your MOT groups and I could post them here in the margins as a reminder to all. I know that others are needing support, so let me know what you are thinking and let's start a conversation!