As Christmas Day nears we offer (with the authors approval) this two (2) part series written in late 2014 on a site called: Divinesparkingnites.com
Raschelle Holland has taught for over 25 years and sat down to write this article as she had “… been so disheartened as I’ve watched the transformation of our schools due to mandates that restrict quality teaching…” We’ll pull a few lines from Part 1 and Part 2 and post the full articles so you can read them. How do we defeat The Grinch?
The Grinch Stole Common Core this Christmas…Part 1 >>>>>
It being conference week for teachers and the high stress time already, I sat in my office reflecting upon the effects of Common Core and the impact it is having upon the classrooms of our nation. The image of the grumpy, ole’, green Grinch came to mind. My face definitely mirrored the contortions Jim Carey became so famous for in the movie of Dr. Seuss’ beloved Christmas Story. I most likely will never star in any movie for my facial expressions, but I am sure mine are just as ugly.
My mouth dropped. My mouth contorted. My face reddened. And my dear colleague affirmed I did not turn green. The Common Core Grinch emerged. Wrong color, but the Grinch still.
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Children are like snowflakes, no two are alike.
I think about the first snowy night of each winter season and picture myself outside with my face to the sky. It’s peaceful. Quiet. Each flake lands softly on my cheeks… nose… brows… As I spread my gloved hands outward, a few flakes land and find a safe harbor for only a few twinklings before melting. Lifting my finger to take a closer look at each, I smile. There is something magical in this moment knowing I’m looking at a unique and beautiful creation of nature. If I was given a microscope, I know its magnificence would be amplified into its individual glory.
Somewhere in my Common Core Grinch heart, I have reminiscence of the brilliant sparkles of what once was…. Classrooms filled with snowflakes… with the freedom to flourish and thrive and blanket our nation with their individual beauty and unique imprints.
If we are against something, then what are we for?
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