Teach out Project Proposal

 

The Teach Out Project Proposal

 

This is the first step in brainstorming your final project in this class.  Please post this document to your blog and bring this document to class on March 26.  This is just the planning stage – no formalities!

 

CHOOSE A TEXT: Review your whole blog to remind yourself about what we have read so far in class. What texts have stayed with you so far? What articles inspire you?  What topic matters most to you in terms of your own work? Are there any of these texts that you would like to share with others in your life?    The text that has stuck with me a lot is Shifting the Paragdigm from Deficit Oriented Schools to Asset Based Models: Why Leaders Need to Promote an Asset Orientation in our Schools by Shannon Renkly and Katherine Bertolini. The article by Shannon Renkly and Katherine Bertolini argues that schools should shift from a deficit-oriented mode, which focuses on students’ weaknesses, to an asset-based model that highlights students’ strengths, skills, and potential. The authors emphasize that focusing only on problems leads schools to react rather than proactively support student growth. An asset-based approach encourages educators to recognize and build on what students can do, helping reduce fear of failure by promoting small, achievable goals and celebrating success. This shift not only empowers students but also fosters stronger collaboration among educators, families, and communities. The reflection highlights how educators often default to problem-solving and “fixing” weaknesses, but adopting an asset mindset can lead to more positive outcomes. By maintaining high expectations, supporting students in reaching them, and valuing their existing strengths, schools can create an environment that promotes confidence, growth, and collective success.

 

WHO DO YOU WANT TO SHARE WITH? Are there people in your life with whom you would really like to talk about these texts? Colleagues? Students? Family members? Friends? Children? I would like to share this text with my colleagues at work.  I work in a K-4 elementary school setting and think this will be a powerful piece to share.  As educators, we have great influence on how students view themselves. I would also like to potentially interview a colleague to gain their perspective around this piece.

 

WHAT FORMAT MIGHT WORK FOR YOU? Individual interview? Small group discussion? Art activity? Professional development workshop? Poster for your office? Pamphlet to share? Lesson plan? Etc? I am thinking of a few different ideas as of now.  I am thinking of creating a brochure to share in our professional development space, and also conducting and interview or two with colleagues.  I would also like to interview my husband as he works in a different field and I would like to see what his perspective is surrounding this piece as well as how it can connect to other areas in the workforce and in life in general.