On Doing Enough

As educators, we don't always see the fruits of our efforts. Those ah-ha moments often happen behind the shutters of our students' eyelids or take years to percolate.

Stock photo courtesy of Wix.

One thing I love about teaching is getting lost in the moment. I am so focused on making sure my students not only know HOW to do something but WHY they are doing it. It is a dance of leading and observing, constantly changing the tempo to match their ability and style. I associate becoming enthralled in the moment with passion for the work. Sometimes I am so focused on the current dance, however, that I forget to step back and notice that they are dancing!

I've been working with a particular high school student for a year and half. When he first started seeing me, he had a 30% in his math class. This week he told me he currently has an A minus. Granted this was a different school year, different math topic, etc. All the disclaimers. I'm not claiming to be a miracle worker. Yet, I couldn't help but feel extremely proud of him and subsequently proud of myself.

I often struggle with the intangible measures of success in this industry. Am I doing enough? Am I reaching them? Are they understanding? I have to remind myself, yes, they hear me. See, they are dancing. Every lesson strengthens muscles and sharpens reflexes. One day they will dance circles around me. I can't wait.