January 13, 2020

Dear Families,

I read recently that Tom Hanks said the biggest lesson he learned from portraying Mr. Rodgers was how to listen. He is now living by the acronym WAIT, which stands for “Why Am I Talking?”

The staff at 75 Morton has been working on this skill and concept. As part of our advisory program we use restorative circles. Restorative circles give people an opportunity to speak and listen to each other in an atmosphere of safety, decorum and equality. We recently spent a staff meeting doing restorative circles with a focus on LISTENING. We discussed how we need to work harder on creating an environment in which students feel heard.

I am always working on listening. I actively try to turn away from my computer, face whomever is talking to me, make eye contact, and listen. I am also trying hard to resist lecturing misbehaving students. It is an ongoing project to slow down and to breathe and to simply listen. Listening takes time, patience, trust, hope, and respect.

As a parent, I could have used this skill years ago. OMG. I hardly paused between the “WHAT DID YOU JUST DO?????” Or the, “WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY????” Or the, “YOU FORGOT WHAT???” and the answer. I was so ready with the lecture, analysis, diagnosis, advice, or final judgement. Seriously, I am not sure how my sweet girls got in a word! I could have used the advice of WAIT.

Parenting is not easy. It is joyous, challenging, hilarious, daunting, scary, and worth it every minute of every day. I do believe it is never too late to learn how to be a better parent (or educator). Now I practice my listening skills when my three twenty-something daughters come over and I learn so much about their lives, hearts, and minds. 

My advice? Think about practicing WAIT.

On another note altogether, the PTA is gearing up for our biggest fundraiser, the third annual auction party on April 2 (save-the-date!). Please click HERE  to get everything you need to donate an item, solicit donations, or sponsor the event.

With Respect,

Jacqui