Being Candid, Being Honest – July 25, 2011

One of the biggest things I had struggled with as a public educator was being candid, being honest.  On the one hand, I had felt confident to voice my thoughts in meetings, in my classroom, and in the hallways.  I would have something to say… and say it.  On the other hand, I feel the way I do right now… hesitant, scared, and uncertain.

I love teaching.  I love teaching kids math.  For kids to learn, sometimes you have to be honest with the kids, your colleagues, and parents to accomplish what needs to get done to succeed.  In math, being honest and candid to all stakeholders can be a “touchy-subject.”  Actually, it can be difficult to achieve regardless of what subject area you teach. 

What I have learned is you can tell the truth and share your thoughts, but there must be a certain level of tact or restraint that needs to be taken to stay “safe.”  I have mixed feelings about this because what is said is subject to interpretation.  In the end, what was meant to be said may not be received in the same way as it was intended.

Taking the time to engage in what Habermas calls COMMUNICATIVE ACTION is a necessary good in schools to ensure that good things are happening for kids and their learning.  Communicative action is the act of dialoguing with others, striving for shared understanding.  This does not mean that everyone agrees or complies. What it does mean is that meaning is negotiated and opinions can be acknowledged.

We are all on the same team… working together to help kids learn… Go Educators!