Engagement Makes It Personal

Not long ago I visited with one of my former students. I taught him while he was in his senior year. By his own admission, his high school academic record was a little above average. After high school, he was able to enter a program at a nearby community college, and his academic marks were … Continue reading Engagement Makes It Personal

Characteristics of Caring

Not long ago I was with a colleague and reflected on why I became an educator.  Like so many people, my response began with, “When I was in school, there was a teacher . . . “  In my case, it was at least four teachers (a band director, two English teachers, and a Theater … Continue reading Characteristics of Caring

Self-Determination and Intrinsic Motivation

Many years ago when I was an elementary music teacher, I challenged students in my 4th grade classes to compose and record original works for a grant-funded project. One particular student became more engaged than his peers. He asked if he could give up recess time and come to my room to work. He asked … Continue reading Self-Determination and Intrinsic Motivation