Finish strong... start stronger... (47)

The year is coming to a close.

You've had many successes so far this year and you've noticed huge gains in several areas.

You've also had many setback and stumbles and you've identified several areas that need your immediate attention.

There have been days when you couldn't quit smiling and there have been days that seemed they would never end.

You've had times when you felt you couldn't give anymore because you were stretched to the breaking point.

You've also had times when everything seemed to fall into place perfectly.

Recognizing the ups and downs in life is one thing.

Committing yourself to having the right mindset and a positive attitude to make adjustments and changes is an entirely different thing.

Don't let what has happened in the past interfere with what you want for the future.

Don't settle for what has been when working to write your future plans.

Don't close the book just because the first few chapters weren't what you expected.

Finish this year strong, but focus on starting the next year even stronger.

Which starfish are you going to save?

Also, remember that not every student is going home to an amazing holiday. Be sure to make their week as special as you can... via @drclintfreeman

Thank you... (46)

Thank you.

Thank you for choosing to take time to read the Monday Morning Memo.

You've made the conscious choice to read this memo knowing full well that you won't get a large sum of money or any special tangible gifts as a result.

You've decided to utilize your limited and valuable time to read something because you hopefully believe it either inspires you, or gives you an idea of something to use in your classroom.

For your professionalism and commitment to taking the time out of your busy schedule, we thank you.

We thank you because you are making the ultimate sacrifice and giving up your most precious commodity... your time.

There's no link, video, or image that we want to share this week with the memo.

We just want to say that we appreciate your hard work and we appreciate all that you do to ensure the best possible learning environment for our students.

This job is tough, and it's definitely not for the faint of heart.

We need your very best and we have no doubt that you are willing and committed to giving your best.

Again, we thank you, and more importantly (though they may not say it), your kids thank you too.

Have a great week and remember what an awesome opportunity you have on any given day to positively impact the life of a child.

Pictures and thoughts... (45)

We are a globally connected society and have been for a while...

 

Nick Saban after the Alabama vs. Auburn game...

Instilling a love of reading is perhaps the most important thing we can do...

Technology sure is making us antisocial... #eduhumor

Seriously... smiling is also healthy: 15 health benefits of smiling