Are you excited to kick off this new semester? You should be. There is no better feeling then the chance to start fresh and a new semester provides just that opportunity. It's easy to fall into the habit of looking back and thinking about what went wrong and feeling bad about it. Don't get sucked in, shake it off now! Growth is about learning and moving forward, so don't let anything hold you back.
Here's how to launch a great new virtual school semester.
For the Learning Coach:
- Refresh your focus - Remind yourself of the reasons you chose a virtual school setting.
- Revisit success stories - Chances are, you did more right last semester than you realize. Identify what went right and write it down. You can also read about others’ success stories for an extra shot of motivation.
- Build your support network - Reach out to other Learning Coaches via social networks or school message boards.
- Reflect on growth - In addition to information gathered from state testing, report cards, and lessons completed, talk about what your student has learned and how this gets them closer to their individual goals.
- Picture change - Schedule some time with your teacher to get their input on how the semester went. Find time to chat with your kids openly (not in an accusatory way) about what worked or didn't work during the previous semester. If they aren't in a chatty mood, create your own list for reference. What would you and your student like to do differently this semester? How will you implement that change?
- Have fun with it - You have reached another milestone, take time to enjoy the victories!
For the student:
- Set goals - Write down student’s goals and place them in a visible area for motivation.
- Find their hero - Is there someone that your student looks up to that has reached a goal they would like to? Use that success story as a reminder that challenges can be overcome!
- Update contacts- Make sure all the contact numbers and teacher email addresses are updated and on a handy list for quick reference.
- Care for your computer- Troubleshoot computer problems, including discarding old files that are no longer used. Clean and organize your learning area and supplies.
- Move forward - Look for the growth your student has made. Help him or her recognize accomplishments. If there was a rough spot during the last semester, help identify how to learn from the moment and keep going.
- Teach them the happy dance - Children mirror our reactions. Demonstrate how to kick up your heels and celebrate their success!
Now that you are refreshed and energized, go for it! It's going to be a great year!