My Fourth Grade Team
by Anthony Allevato, H.M.E, Lehigh Acres, FL
December 11, 2008
Have you ever been a member of a team that is such a big part of your life that you often feel you would be lost without them? My fourth grade team here at Harns Marsh Elementary is one such team. First of all, I know that each member is always there for me if I am down or having a bad day. Next, they are extremely dedicated to their profession and their students. Last but not least, they are the textbook definition of what a PLC is all about. Get ready for some “warm fuzzies”.
For starters, this group of individuals has a special way of lifting a guy’s spirits when he’s hanging his head. For example, Brenda just loves sending us little Hallmark “feel good” cards when one of us is going through a tough time. She’s like a one man Sunshine Committee. Then there is Kyle, who is always willing to go to the driving range to hit golf balls after a hard day at the office (no matter how late is). I know, I know, they truly are terrific!
Secondly, I am not sure I have ever worked with a more dedicated group of individuals in my life. Take Dave, he must be the first one in the building each day, and is always pursuing his love for higher education. He inspires us all to “Never stop learning”. Don’t even get me started on Jamie, she doesn’t even work Dawn to Dusk, and yet she is in her classroom nearly every night until 6 or 7 o’clock making sure her lesson plans are just right. Their dedication to our school is an inspiration to me each and every single day.
Finally, I am sure even Webster would agree that this team is the textbook definition of what a PLC is all about. Annette has one of the biggest hearts I have ever seen in a teacher and we can always count on her to meet the needs of our children, day in and day out. Then there is Gina, she is always sharing strategies and lessons that work well in her classroom. I know that Richard Dufour would certainly be proud of the way she collaborates.
Wow, what an amazing group to work with! Have you ever been a part of something so great? A group that is always there for you, always going above and beyond the call of duty, and always living up to the expectations of a PLC? I for one am currently part of such a team, and it feels great. I can only hope that each team I am a part of in the future functions like such a well oiled machine!