Is it just me, or does everyone else have that fresh, squeaky ‘new decade’ feeling?
I’ve been pondering what to put into my first blog post of the year. While some are blogging about the ongoing challenge of maintaining and sustaining positive change, others are reflecting on the work and thoughts of the past year, or setting goals for 2010.
Some colleagues have used that holiday energy to create new sites – in particular I am thrilled to watch my boss walking the talk and blogging about leadership and learning, and that one of my favourite tech-teacher buddies has found time to share her thoughts on a new Ning.
As for me…I just don’t know. Leading the digital revolution can leave one feeling somewhat bruised and battered. We all know too well that feeling of hitting your head against the brick wall of fear and stagnation. And with my shiny new year feeling still firmly in my pocket, I’m loathe to set a “direction” just yet.
One thing I do know is that I have to finish my PhD thesis. And to be honest that is probably the only direction I should be setting!
Certainly another big focus of mine this year is going to be the development of the National Curriculum. The draft Australian curriculum for English, mathematics, science and history will be available for consultation from mid February to May 2010, and with much of the consultation occurring online, it is vital that the education community makes itself heard during this time.
But…as for ‘the spirit’ of my 2010…
If you really want me to pin it down, then my early pick is: avoid burn out and nurture creativity. OK, it might sound a bit trite. But seriously – if we can’t start converting all of this amazing progress in the fields of technology, pedagogy and currirulum into some more rewarding and enriching experiences, then what is it all for? We’ve cast the net wide, now it’s time to go deep. Technology has made our lives more interesting, but this year I’d also like to see it make us happier.
I’m hoping the early adopters have generated enough momentum and goodwill in schools to allow us to spend more time nurturing creativity; our students’ and our own. Time will tell. The realities of poor school wireless networks, restrictive department web filters and Clayton’s league tables masquerading as legitimate government websites may drag us down yet.
Until then, the road ahead is paved with the promise of better times, thanks to the hard work and determination of leaders of change that have cleared the path for others. Fear of ‘the new’ is now sooo last decade 😉 And that, at least, is a happy thought to start 2010 with.
Kelli McGraw 
#1 by darcymoore on January 13, 2010 - 5:31 pm
Your plan is smart. It is really important to stay fresh, curious, creative…and too often, we tire at the end of a long day, term, year or career. Stay focused, avoid burnout and nurture creativity. Your plan is good strategy for the long haul. Keep building the tribe(s) and Happy New Year!
#2 by Troy on January 13, 2010 - 5:51 pm
Finish the thesis!
I am still trying to dissolve last year before I begin thinking about the spirit for this year. I want to learn more this year, rather than act as a medium for preparing students for assessments and exams. Also, I have one eye on that National Curriculum for English and History. I can see at least half of my colleagues leaving as the National Curriculum is introduced, we need to be a part of it, to be the basis of the thing, rather than whinge about it after the fact.
#3 by Renee Gilbert on January 25, 2010 - 12:44 am
Kelli,
I have really enjoyed reading your posts, this one particularly struck a chord with me as much like you my goal for 2010 is to avoid burn out. I have found that my personal plan in to immerse myself in my own learning and enriching the lives of my students by concentrating on meaningful learning experiences. With so much change upon us, it is easy to get swept up in the excitement (and uncertainty) of the future. Despite this, in 2010 I am going to get up every morning and remind myself what my core business is and the joys that surround that.
My motto
Engage – Inspire – Teach
Your blog does all of these things, so it will certainly be gracing my favourites page. Enjoy your year, where ever the spirit takes you!
Renee