by Marcia Davis-Dawkins | Mar 16, 2022 | Education, Kids, Parents, Teachers, Teens
Stay on the Trail
By Dr. Marci
For many of us this period has been very overwhelming and maybe difficult. There are those who are cracking under pressure including financial, loss of jobs, mental health issues, learning loss and for some it can be that we are experiencing all of them. Since as teachers we wear many different hats, we try to fix all of them in the classroom yet, we are suffering silently and at times it seems as if we are all alone because it seems as if no one cares or understands. Of course, we are humans and can crack too. I believe that it is always necessary to stay on the trail but also important to take a break. It seems as if administrators, fellow teachers, parents, and students just don’t get it – even though we try to do the right thing professionally, words are thrown at the educator as if he/she is not human and have no feelings. Yes, it is also easy to say, “Oh she is so sensitive, she gets upset for everything!” But who gives that person the right to say that or even think that that person is not supposed to deal with her feelings? Words affect people differently and we should be mindful of what we say to each other.
Life can be so unkind sometimes and to add to our sadness, there are wars, sickness, meanness, and on and on. The struggles are real, and we are forced to grin and bear things but also stay on the trail and do everything that is considered good.
Stay on the trail and pretend that we don’t struggle, or nothing bothers us. We must take time to breathe and even check in with our mental health and do things that make us feel special. For me, it’s the little things that help me to just breathe, things like spending time with family and do things that are on my bucket list. Speaking of bucket list, I had the opportunity to go explore the 
Grand Canyon in Arizona. For the first time in a long while I was able to forget about teaching and dealing with administrators but to take in nature at that breathtaking place. Truth is the experience was more than words could tell or maybe my words. In one day, I experienced three seasons the temperature went from 60 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit where it even iced (slushy snow) and then it went straight to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The day was eventful, and I got a chance to see and reflect on God’s splendor. The experience was enjoyable, yet vibrant. I knew that this was also another learning experience for me. God placed me there for a reason, the friends who accompanied me on this journey I got to know better and learned so much of the things we share. It gave me the opportunity to take a break, reflect, laugh, and enjoy nature. And how could I forget, I also am very grateful for the fact that I was able to have the experience and use all my given senses. I came face to face with the love of life and God’s Grace towards me. It encouraged me to look at my inner core and who I am based on the various rocks and their formation. There were rocks of various sizes, colors, depth among other things. Just simply amazing! One of the big things that this experience also taught was simply how to stay on the right trail or course of action. Set goals and stick to them, don’t get distracted or I could get lost. Don’t focus on the meanness of what others say or do because they could be lost too and unsure who they are or what makes them tick.
On the journey, I was able to stop at the Hoover Dam and watched in awe at how vast the space was and how the people who built the dam suffered during the building of this beautiful place so we could enjoy. The Mike O’ Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial which linked Nevada and Arizona Bridge showed me how beautiful things could happen if we could come together as one and we stayed on the trail to reach the wonderful Grand Canyon. This breath-taking wander of the world arched 1,900 feet bridge was made of concrete and steel and spans over 1,500 feet downstream from the Hoover Dam. What a moment it was for me? I started thinking of the difference I was making in the lives of my students, and I needed to stay on the trail and continue to make a difference even when I feel like giving up or want to stop because of the meanness of others I might meet. My gift to help others should not stop and better yet, I won’t stop at mediocrity. What can you do to stay on the trail?
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!
Stay on the trail and pretend that we don’t struggle, or nothing bothers us. We must take time to breathe and even check in with our mental health and do things that make us feel special. For me, it’s the little things that help me to just breathe, things like spending time with family and do things that are on my bucket list. Speaking of bucket list, I had the opportunity to go explore the 
Grand Canyon in Arizona. For the first time in a long while I was able to forget about teaching and dealing with administrators but to take in nature at that breathtaking place. Truth is the experience was more than words could tell or maybe my words. In one day, I experienced three seasons the temperature went from 60 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit where it even iced (slushy snow) and then it went straight to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
