My everyday work in education is some of the most rewarding work I could ask for.  It is also the most frustrating work I could ask for as well.  My frustration rarely is guided toward students, but instead the unrealistic and extrinsically motivated world we have set them up in.  Students...highly motivated, mildly motivated, and even unmotivated....all measure their success on the evaluative tool called the GRADING RUBRIC.   Every homework, quiz, test, exam are all pointed toward the requirements and the ABCDF of the GRADE.  Even when the most creative teachers work to eliminate the GRADE and focus on authentic understanding, we are forced to live in that system.   

I celebrate the opportunity to challenge their status quo and continually let them know
I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE GRADE!!!  
There is NO rubric for your everyday work in the real world of life.  There IS YOUR ability to decide what is successful, what is hard work, and what is giving your all.  
Parents, students, and yes, even the educational system, needs to engage in change and deemphasize work towards a false and ultimately meaningless and extrinsic reward.  
We need to begin using language that allows students to have the chance to value other things as well...dare I say MORE IMPORTANT THINGS!  

Quality, Understanding, Collaboration, Creativity, Interdisciplinary Learning, Interpersonal Relationships, Problem Solving, Discipline, Story, Growth, Engagement, Balance, Vision

These words are more important to our life's work.  Tasks, procedures, and information can be taught in the moment...that is why we send people to training.  
Success and work in education MUST STOP being defined by numbers and letters.
Let's teach the future about learning for quality understanding through their own intrinsic motivation so that they stop using the rubric and researching how to GET an A.
Let's all start wondering what QUALITY WORK deserves CELEBRATION and REWARD!
How do YOU motivate your team?

If you are like me, I wait for the opportunity to make a difference in my world.  Much of the work we do leads us toward change.  Often times that is a long and winding road, troubled by roadblocks, and laden with decisions that may or may not work out.  

For all that the political landscape has brought this year, the one thing that is not at risk, is the opportunity and responsibility to wield your power in the voting booths across the country.   With one push of a button, or engagement of a lever, you can be part of one of the most amazing processes. You have the chance to change your own world.  It is your right, but more importantly it is your responsibility.  There can be nothing that gets in the way.  You have time.  You have opinions.  You HAVE TO!  Today I am not interested in who you like or who you hate.  I am solely focused on the idea that you will take this gift from democracy, tear the wrapping paper off, and smile as you take control to have a voice to change your world.  

Happy voting today and the rest of this political season!!  America, no matter how much we change and disagree, can all work together to participate in what makes our freedom unique and great!!  Keep calm, and vote on!!