Part of why I love gardening is because of the optimism and hope involved. I prepare the soil, consider the sun/shade ratio, choose the seeds, place them in the raised bed, and gently add water. Much like the child in The Carrot Seed (Krauss, 1945), it’s common for me to check for signs of life every morning, squatting down, coffee in hand, trying to discern if a tiny green leaf is popping up to say “hello.” I feel a similar type of optimism as I prepare to launch the ConnectEd Learning Community.
After pouring my heart into the field of education for the better part of my adult life, I’m now in a role with the flexibility to be able to zoom out and see things that weren’t visible when I was in the dailyness of the work. I’ve also been able to meet talented, equally passionate educators from many walks of life beyond my classroom or district address. I want to bring my lessons learned, connections made, and empathy for those with the hardest, most important job on the planet together. My former “why” (the students I taught and the teachers I served in a district) is expanding. I want this site to be a source of nourishment to educators. I want those who interact with ConnectEd Learning Community to walk away more equipped to accomplish their “why” in the service of students.
So, welcome. What is your “why”? How can our Community help you achieve it?
Suzanne