Cultivating

An Incomprehensive List of Definitions for the Word: “Cultivate”

• “To prepare for the raising of crops”

• “To loosen or break up the soil”

• “To foster growth”

• “To improve by labor, care, or study”

In the book, “Called to the Classroom: Daily Reflections for Educators,” I wrote a reflection entitled, “I Am A Cultivator.” This selection is at the beginning of the book because, when writing it, I felt that the start of the school year is when we do our most influential cultivation. While I do believe these early days and weeks of school are the perfect time to create an environment for growth, this may not be the only time of the year to focus on it. I recently talked with a teacher who felt that March might be the most valuable season of the school year to intentionally cultivate a space for progress. I liked that my mindset was shifting a bit because I love the parallel of teachers cultivating opportunities for learning while farmers are cultivating their fields for spring. Something about this seems inextricably connected: Our nurture, our nature.

Evidence of growth takes time, and while there may be patterns, there are also surprises! So, teachers, how might you cultivate your classrooms this month? Which students need you to create intentional goals for them so they feel your belief in them? Where are you already noticing “seeds sprouting” and how can you nourish this new life? How have you developed as a teacher this year? How would you like to see yourself continue to grow over the next few months? What nourishment might you need to take the next step forward?