Consistency is Key
“Consistency of effort over the long run is everything.” ~ Angela Duckworth
In our last reflection, we explored the power of resetting expectations at this time of the year. The trick to the success of this approach is remaining consistent throughout our long days and weeks. Whether it’s a whole class behavior system or a ritual between you and one of your students, consistency is key. With this in mind, today I’d like to share a story that’s near and dear to my heart.
It was the last day of school and my students and I were saying our goodbyes outside as their parents gradually picked them up from school. One of the last to leave was a student I had for two years. When it was time to get on the bus, he was hesitant to say goodbye, but I told him how much I would miss him. He turned around to walk toward the bus, and I shouted, “Wait! Did you forget?” He turned around, his face puzzled then expectant as I showed him my closed fist to make a fist bump. He rushed back, gave me a fist bump, and my hand opened to reveal a small mint. The look on his face was indescribable. You see, for months this student had asked me for a mint at the end of every day. During our busy dismissal time, I would always try to remember to keep a mint ready, so when he and I fist bumped and said our goodbyes, one would be revealed. On this last day, he was surprised I had remembered to bring one out with us. I will never forget the look on his face and the trust that tiny mint cultivated.
This story is such a simple example, but I share it because I believe it illustrates that, as teachers, consistency over the long run is everything. We have demonstrated steadfastness in so many ways, responding with love on good and bad days alike. We have shown unwavering advocacy for our students when they are struggling or hurting, never giving up even though there were times when we entertained the thought. If the seemingly small action of remembering to give a mint at the end of the day could cultivate trust with a student, just imagine the impact of our steadfast efforts all year long.
