by Marcia Davis-Dawkins | Feb 16, 2022 | Education, Kids, Parents, Teachers
A Little Child Shall Lead Them
By Dr. Marci
Teaching can have some dull days and naturally some bright days. In all my years of teaching, I have learned several things about my students, and I am encouraged to meet them where they are on the learning curve.
Two weeks ago, I welcomed a new student who was also an English Language Learner (ELL). This student had never attended school, so things were difficult for him – it was difficult for me as well, but I was determined to see the good in him and as it was, cater to him so he could feel special and be included in part of our learning community. I wanted to run the race with patience, so that I can finish strong. I needed to stay in my lane, so that I won’t be disqualified. I wanted to see how I could help him to learn at least one thing. The days for me were slow and I knew that the ELL teacher was also struggling but giving up was not an option.
On the third Monday, after he came to my class, the security officer came to my room with him and said he was left at the school compound 7:15 a.m. in the cold. During the day, it seemed as if the light bulb turned on and as I sat with him, he seemed to be catching on to some of the things that were being taught. This was exciting to me since I was seeing a light and he was also seeing a light. Fast forward to the end of the day and I was told that he was switching schools because of his address. He was going to another school in the district because he lived closer to that school. I made an announcement to the class, and I could see his face drop. I asked him what was wrong, and he said that he didn’t want to leave the class because it was “nice here”. Well, like clockwork one of the other students said that she had a speech she wanted to make. So, I allowed her to give her speech and it went like this, “John, I want you to know that wherever you go, you will always be in our hearts, and you also make new friends. Don’t worry you will be okay.” My mouth dropped open because I didn’t expect the speech to be so emotional and on point. Before I could say anything four other students went to hug him (the student who was leaving us) and another student was telling them to be careful because COVID-19 was still present. Believe me I hardly had any time to say or do anything, I was in awe. My preaching of showing kindness and being a caring community was paying off!! I was winning my race; I kept the faith, and my patience was paying off. These first graders told me reassured me that this was a good day too. I could go home feeling happy! John was leaving but he knew that he was loved by this group of learning community.
by Marcia Davis-Dawkins | Nov 15, 2021 | Education, Kids, Parents, Teachers
Make Me a Channel
By Dr. Marcia
There is a hymn that says, “Make Me a Channel of Blessing” and it goes on to say, “to someone today.” I will go on to say, make me a channel of inspiration today since many are so lonely, weary, sad, needy, 
eager, and maybe waiting to be assisted. This doesn’t only happen to people I meet but inclusive of students I teach or those I encounter each day. I strongly believe that I am entrusted to give of myself in the form of love, encouragement, and affirmation. There are days when it seems impossible but as I am speaking to them, I am digging through my mind, and wondering how I can be a channel of encouragement to them. Some days I think it means just simply being a good listener to them and allowing them to unwind. I will use the opportunity to give what was entrusted to me shine through me. Of course, there are those who will try to belittle by telling me that’s not enough because I am JUST a teacher and teachers don’t make money but dare, I say that money is not all! I will also say like one of my students said while saying his affirmation recently, “I am enough”! He is getting the message like so many others that they are one of a kind and just as special to use what they must make a difference and it simply starts with changing the mindset. Of course, as a teacher it is my goal to encourage this student and others 
so they feel special convinced that they are really enough. Even when life may knock me down and there are roadblocks, I must press on and continue giving of my best.
I can help to boost someone’s morale by encouraging them in my way, giving up my time because that is what I do best. I will run my race with patience, so that I can finish strong. I will stay in my lane, so I won’t get disqualified.
Empowerment
by Marcia Davis-Dawkins | Aug 14, 2021 | Education, Kids, Parents, Teachers, Teens
Just a Smile
By Dr. Marci
Today I woke up just feeling happy and wanted to share. I saw a friend of mine posted a Thich Nhat Hanh quote that said, “Sometimes your joy is the source of
your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” Wow, I thought it was so profound and I even was inspired to write about it! It might seem 
like mere coincidence, but as soon as I sat to begin writing, I got a message from one of my cousins whose message read, “Smile and be happy. When people say they can’t see anything good in you… hug them and say, “Life is difficult for the blind.” I know it was meant to bring a smile to my face and I did smile, especially since I was thinking about smiling and it confirmed that I needed to write. It is a reminder that despite all the sadness that is around us, we can still find something to be happy about and smile.
We can even laugh since laughter is medicinal. It is also telling me that as I prepare to go back in the classroom after the summer break, I should continue to give smiles for those students and staff who might get joy from my smiles. Of course, there are factors such as COVID-19 and mask wearing, but we can still smile! I am reminded how I recently saw the smile in a few students’ eyes as they received their tablets to assist with online learning. Those smiles bought me joy, so I smiled. Thank goodness we can smile. I am thankful for all the smiles I have given and will continue to give and very thankful for the smiles I have been given. Keep on smiling, it makes a difference!
Determination and Perseverance
by Marcia Davis-Dawkins | Jul 7, 2021 | Education, Kids, Parents, Teachers
Good Things Come to Those Who Wait!
By Dr. Marci
I have always enjoyed flowers and gardening has become a hobby. This Spring was no exception, I was anxious to begin planting. I went to buy plants and even 
decided to buy bulbs that I remember seeing my grandmother planting when I was growing up. I couldn’t wait for the spring to begin so I could plant the flowers and especially the bulbs. I waited and waited and saw no sign of the bulbs growing. I had even shared some of the bulbs with a friend who loved gardening just like I did. We compared notes and questioned why there seemed to be no growth. When we almost lost hope and gave up, I looked to water my plants and spotted a tiny bulb unfolding its beautiful head! It was a great way to start my day after my tiring three-mile morning walk.
As I took in the moment, I started to consider what this means in terms of a life lesson. Surely this can mean one of two things: 1) All you need for growth is patience and consistency 2) “Good Things Come to Those Who Wait!” For sure, there is a lesson for everything we experience in life, and it got me thinking of how this can apply to education as well.
One of the things that I always promise myself is to never have a preconceived notion of my new students. In fact, I don’t ask previous teachers to give their perception about a student, as I wanted to form my own opinion about each. I have often found that since one size does not fit all, I shouldn’t assume that they will react the same way that they did for another teacher. I simply must give them a chance. I should not quit on a student before they have a chance to prove themselves, just like I patiently waited on my bulb plants to show who they are. Not everything nor everyone grows at the same pace and simply giving loving care and molding them according to their needs can help.
I spent 180 days teaching online and to be honest, I really didn’t think I would survive. There were many things that came new to me: a new school, new grade, new tasks, new teaching methods, new students who were eager to learn, and many others. There were days when I had my lesson plans and realized after the first five minutes that they were not going to work, based on the students’ moods or it simply was not the right time for that lesson. They were just not ready to grow yet. Interestingly, I had to think quickly since I also had the things to do, and the order of the lessons already lined up in my laptop’s browser. As if I didn’t wear enough hats, I had to navigate the laptop quickly and ensure that I was meeting the needs of all the students, who weren’t physically in front of me, but were virtual. Who would have thought I was capable of this task?
Each day was met with anticipation as I sat in front of the laptops wondering what could go wrong and how they would be fixed or even better yet, how my many rambunctious six-year-olds and sometimes parents, would react to the shift in schedule or planned lessons. And yes, Murphy’s Law showed up for class very often. There were also days when some parents would question why I made sudden changes, they would challenge my professional judgement or better yet leave me wondering if I would get out of the situations without me questioning my ability to teach or manage my group of students.
In general, I do know that I made long lasting connections, kept high expectations, saw wonderful progress with my students as we navigated the rather unusual school year. For the first time I choked up and felt tears as the students and parents told me how they felt about me being the teacher. I heard how inspirational I had been, how much their students grew academically and even that they became brave! I too grew as a person and professionally. It’s the little things that matter and makes it all worthwhile. I know for sure that I really love teaching, especially the ah, ah moments. I do feel like there is more in store for me too, even more for me to learn!! To my students and parents, I say, “Thank you for helping to bring out the best in me!” I’ve always said that my class was hand-picked by God and each day I was more convinced. Each student was special in his/her own way. I encouraged them daily to have a positive outlook by starting the day with a positive affirmation and they bought into it. I encouraged them to dream big and not give up and to continue reaching for the stars. I suppose the idea is to wait for the goodness and continue being the best that I can be. I am hopeful as I get ready for the summer to rejuvenate and look forward to the new buds that will be planted. It always fascinating how from little seeds mighty and beautiful trees or flowers can grow.
Stay Rooted!
by Marcia Davis-Dawkins | May 3, 2021 | Education, Kids, Parents, Teachers, Teens
Compassion or Indifference?
By Dr. Marcia
You might know or have heard the lyrics of the song below. I wanted to write all the words so we could get to focus on the words and maybe even sing or listen to it at your convenience.
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
No not just for some, but for everyone
Lord, we don’t need another mountain
There are mountains and hillsides enough to climb
There are oceans and rivers enough to cross
Enough to last ’til the end of time
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
No, not just for some, but for everyone
Lord, we don’t need another meadow
There are cornfields and wheatfields enough to grow
There are sunbeams and moonbeams enough to shine
Oh listen, Lord, if you want to know
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
No, not just for some, oh, but just for every, every, everyone 
The lyrics to this song written by David Hal and composed by Burt Bacharach gives such a wonderful message and even though written in 1965, is still applicable today. This song is beautiful and has been sang by various artistes. The world is in always in need of love and to step it further it should be filled with compassion. What is the difference you may ask? Even though closely related love can be viewed as that deep feeling of fondness or even warmth towards another person and compassion on the other hand is a concerned pity and deep concern for people’s misery or their adversities.
Covid-19 has brought about so much sadness, in many forms and it is easy to say that people have been frustrated and overwhelmed with the various forms of sadness through deaths, sickness, joblessness, unpaid bills, depression, anger, loneliness, social injustice, just to name a few. To add to the ongoing misfortunes, people have become unkind and even lack compassion. To me, it seems as if we have become indifferent and less caring, to the point of being selfish or even rude. At times some people have said unkind things to each other without even thinking about what the words and the impact on the person/s hearing them. There are those who might say that the recipients of words are too thin skinned, and these persons are not realizing that they are demeaning and disrespecting the recipient’s feelings. How can we show compassion, you may ask? I have always thought that if we are kind to ourselves, then it follows that it can be easy to pass on being compassionate to others. There are several persons who have compiled various lists and a few of them include
-
Being kind
-
Being courteous
-
Giving hugs if it’s appropriate
-
Giving a listening ear – people like to know that we care, simply by listening to them
-
Listen without interrupting
-
Being verbal, yet temper how we say things to others
-
Being encouraging and supportive
-
Being a team player
-
When communicating watch our body language as sometimes that speaks nonverbally
-
Being respectful – call the person by his/her name and make sure it’s pronounced correctly
Some people are known to say things without even knowing how it might affect the person who is hearing the words. It is clearly not what we say but how we say it! Of course, we can deliver bad news by choosing how to deliver. We sometimes get indifferent towards the needs of others. Let us try show love and a little more than love for each other even steering away from being indifferent. Elie Wiesel once said,
“The opposite of love is not hate, it’s indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it’s indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it’s indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it’s indifference.” Always try to be giving, forgiving, compassionate and loving. It is necessary to do the right thing by being compassionate, since doing the right thing is always liberating!
Love is Patient and Kind
by Marcia Davis-Dawkins | Apr 16, 2021 | Education, Kids, Parents, Teachers, Teens
I Can Be Made New
By Dr. Marcia
On two separate occasions, while growing up, I was bitten by two dogs. Ever since, my love for dogs changed drastically. I have been traumatized! 
On one of the occasions, I was visiting my grandfather and was going back home. At the bus stop I wanted to use the bathroom so badly that my aunt said I could go ask one of the women in the neighborhood to use the bathroom. As I turned to go, I could see a dog without leash and I hesitated, however, the woman’s daughter reassured me that I was safe. As soon as I got to the door, and before I got a chance to even think, the dog pounced on me and hung onto my knee! Maybe some of you are thinking that it was a little scratch, but a chunk of my knee was literally taken out and eaten like a piece of meat. My world turned upside down as I started screaming in anguish. I trusted this lady – and yet my trust was broken. It felt like I didn’t want to use the bathroom again. Come to think of it, it was a good thing I didn’t pee on myself! I remember the woman cleaned my wound and put bandage on it and I went back to the bus stop and carried on as if things were only derailed for 5 minutes.
The second time was not as dramatic, but I knew I would never trust anyone who was near a dog ever again. There were other times when I wanted, I was told to ignore the dogs I saw because they were friendly, but I knew better and would not go near any dog. I am not a fan or dogs, and I am really cautious when I hear people say that they are quiet, friendly and can be petted. It seems as if they usually sense my fear and without a doubt always move towards me to show how “friendly” they are. I don’t usually try to find out either as avoid them as much as I can. With that background in mind, it is no wonder that read with skepticism, an article in a Jamaican newspaper which talked about some Jamaican mongrel dogs that were “rescued” and sent to a shelter to Canada. https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/144_Royal_Caribbean_Terriers_off_to_Canada?profile=1228
Days after I read the article, I started thinking about the dogs who were considered just “ordinary” who were not cared for properly but now because of a dogs’ shelter there was a change of course for them. These dogs were less fortunate than most but now they became visible. I drew a correlation to my life and the lives of people in general. There are times when we might get an opportunity and that could change the trajectory of our journey. That change could mean that we are moved to higher heights simply because a door was opened, and the course of the journey has changed. The journey of the dogs changed even their names seemed more sophisticated – they are now Caribbean Terriers instead of simply mongrels. They migrated from the streets to travel on a plane and onto a shelter.
Like the Caribbean Terriers, there is a purpose for all of us – even when things seem to be spinning out of control, we are encouraged to use every opportunity that we have to shine our lights. In the midst of chaos, we must remember that Our Father is still in control. Covid-19 has brought us so much sadness and we tend to want to give up, we must not give up – we must fight on and lift our heads above the waters. We must surround ourselves with people who will support and encourage us to connect to the best version of ourselves.
The lesson of that I got from the Caribbean Terriers is that there is greatness in each of us. There is a purpose in us and shouldn’t fear. Most of all we should encourage ourselves as well as those we encounter. We can make a positive impact on everyone. We cannot give up on ourselves or even our students – most times we might be the last person they can hear positive words from. The question is, how can I help to make someone’s life new simply by being positive?
Empowerment
