The Art of the Compliment or Motivating People to Success

I went to a workshop last week and the presenter talked about the importance of complimenting students on what they are doing well before giving them a goal to work on the next week.  This is the same thing we do during conferences and meetings with parents.  Everyone agreed that this was a great idea.  One sassy gal said "wouldn't that be great if principals did that too", (she had probably had too much inside recess that week).  This lead to a hearty laugh and a couple of stories about the wonderful things teachers do that principals never notice.  This got me thinking about the importance of noticing the little things teachers do daily that rarely get recognized.  I know teachers don't do things to get recognition, but that doesn't mean they don't enjoy getting an "attaboy" once in a while.
I have written before about the importance of being a visible member of the community and doing regular walk throughs, but now I see the importance of adding a sincere compliment.  A compliment should be sincere and specific not just flattery.
Just a couple of ideas for principals include "Caught You Doing a Great Job" notes, take advantage of times to write notes or ask what they need, and support them with parents.
A principal who is welcoming, friendly, interesting, encouraging, and accessible makes all the difference.  Popping in to say hello to a teacher who is working late, relaying compliments from parents, students, or colleagues, or leaving a note with something positive they have seen shows support for teachers.

"The beauty of life does not depend on how happy you are but on how happy others can be because of you".

Fabulous First Graders Using Technology

Would you be willing to donate to my DonorsChoose project?
http://www.donorschoose.org/Mrs.robinson1

My Students: Let's make learning exciting! Many of my students struggle with reading and math, the iPad can build excitement and motivation for them. My class would love the opportunity to use the iPad mini to improve their reading and math skills.

I teach at a low income school. Most of my students do not have technology or Internet access in their homes. The iPad would allow them to become "tech savvy" first graders. We have two desktop computers that they all love to use. The iPads would allow more students to have access to the skill building games that make learning fun for first graders.

My Project: The iPad mini is a great tool for students to use. They inspire creativity and allow students to engage in a variety of learning experiences. The iPad will allow them to have a library at their fingertips. Not only will they be able to read a book, but interact with it as well. Many books allow students to click on illustrations, which will help them build vocabulary. Many books have features that allow students to record their voice as they read the story. This is a great fluency builder. There are many great apps that allow students to build skills as they play. The iPad mini will open a world of knowledge to my students that will make them lifelong learners.

Thank you so much for considering this project. The impact you have on students today will follow them into the future. If young students are allowed the opportunity to feel successful and build excitement for learning it will follow them through their school career.