Classroom Teachers vs. School Teachers

During one of the sessions that we had, I brought up the difference between a classroom teacher and a school teacher and what these teaching differences can mean to a PLC, our schools, district, and most importantly–our students. I had first run across the comparison when reading The Innovator’s Mindset by George Couros (You need this book if you have not read it yet–like Amazon it ASAP!). 

Looking at the differences between classroom teachers and school teachers is meant to help teachers realize the power of collaboration. The teaching community should be just that…a community! Just think of how much stronger the learning experiences that we strive to create for our kiddos could be if we would be more mindful of creating opportunities where we are sharing, respecting, and trusting one another. 

So, my challenge for you today is to check out the graphic below and think about your role in your teaching journey. Are you a classroom teacher or a school teacher? 

Tweet: Classroom Teachers vs School Teachers–Which are you? by @rockytopteacher Inspired by @gcouros and #theinnovatorsmindset 

Ever since I came across this portion of Mr. Couros’ book, I have found myself using this frame of thinking constantly. I encourage all of us to think about how we can push even further than the “school” teacher mindset. Why not think about being a district teacher, a state teacher, a “WORLD” teacher?  At the end of the day, we are in this profession to help our kiddos be the BEST that they can be. We strive to create learning experiences and journeys for them that are centered around their success. How powerful would it be if we had the mindset that we were helping raise all the kiddos of the world together? ALL of our kiddos. Not YOUR Kiddos, not MY kiddos or THEIR kiddos—-OUR KIDDOS. 

That word OUR is just so powerful.