Every classroom has one. Obviously, there’s a literal voice that rises and falls with the ebb and flow of the day. The pin drop silence of independent reading quickly gives way to the verbal avalanche of group work. On any given day there is bound to be laughter, questions, silence, crying, cheering, complaining, whispering, and more questions.
But that’s not exactly what I’m talking about. I’m talking about a deeper voice. A voice that is felt more than heard. It’s the voice that penetrates to the very marrow of a classroom. That voice is forged in the fires of time. Hour by hour, day by day, the true voice of a classroom will begin to be heard.
The students in my classes created the sweetest voice this year. Of course every class is special, but this year was exceptional. The atmosphere we created was almost heart-wrenching to rip apart. It was a true classroom family.
Now it’s over. It’s time to move on, but that’s a good thing. Although goodbyes can be sad, voices need to grow and change and reverberate off different walls. And unlike a literal voice, if you close your eyes and be still, you can always hear the echoes of voices past.
(originally written June 12, 2012)
Justin,
ReplyDeleteYou are so right. Voice is created by the community. Though I am in the classroom every year, the voice is always a little different. I enjoy that! Congratulations on an exceptional year. Savor it.
Cathy
Cathy- Thank! You're so right. It all comes down to the communities we build as teachers.
ReplyDeleteAfter a year of having a different schedule at our new building, I was able to get back to a more "typical" elementary schedule. Oh - it made such a difference! It wasn't just the voice of me and my students, but it was a voice that included their parents again, too. In my opinion too many people underestimate the importances of developing that team or family in the beginning of the year. The things you can do when you all believe in each other and support each other!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing -- made me think back to some of my most special "voices" from the last 16 years. :)
Becky- Great point. Parents are so important in the school ecosystem. I'm glad you were able to get their voice and cooperation.
ReplyDeleteLove this post. Voices are so important!
ReplyDelete