How can you be a leader if you are not a contributor?

"In order to have an affect on someone else, you must first allow him to effect you." -Ralph Fletcher

I could write a book on this statement; for I feel that it has great significance behind the writing. When I heard this quote on the video about learning communities I automatically thought of all of the "teachable moments" that I have experienced so far as an education student. In order to have a great writing community, you must first recognize the areas in which the issues need work. How can you help a child in need if you are unaware of their needs? In this situation, I believe that observations are vital. Instead of being distant from your students when giving an assignment, I think observing and learning your students are a priority. Not only will it assist the students in becoming better writers, but it will also make a teacher's job a little easier.

As far as a teaching community is concerned, sharing ideas and skills with cooperating teachers are great ways to become an excellent educator. Teaching is constantly a learning process because there is always a more efficient and effective way to get things done. Colleagues can provide you with great advice and a helping hand. Having a great sense of a learning community can make the world of difference at the end of the day.