Learning from kids

I have noticed lately that the staff in my building seems to be more "together" than in the past.  There is a collective connection in my hallway of support between staff members.

What do I attribute this to?

As a building, we have a directive towards collective efficacy this year.  I really do not think that we have had enough valuable conversation about this yet to foster what I am experiencing.

So...?

I think we are reacting to the students.  I believe that our connective piece this year is due to the fact that our students are connected.  I feel that our students are bringing us together as they are more cohesive as a group.

Why do I say this?

I think our students are modeling caring for each other in the hallways and in classrooms which in turn is shifting our building culture (adults included).

What if this was true?

Staff learning from student modelling.  Staff feeding off of the caring nature of students.  Staff riding on the emotional backs of the connections of students.

If this is true, how do we capture this and perpetuate it?

Can staff collectively learn from students?

I think it is time that we do. We learn from our students on a daily basis.  I believe it is time for us to become more intentional in observing the connective behaviors of our students as humans and reflecting upon what we learn from them.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

It's about who we are

A couple of days ago, I saw a graphic about the lasting effects that teachers have on students and that the impact goes far beyond the student as our impact on the student leads our students to impact others.

I was wondering if it might make a difference if my impact was intentional.  This is a rough question for me to reflect on.

I impact kids naturally, authentically, and genuinely because of who I am.  I do not have a plan of attack or make decisions to make a difference in the lives of my students....I don;' think anyone does. I believe it is who we are.  Either we impact students in positive ways or we don't.  It is more about how we care about students, share moments with them in the trenches of life, and how we are real with them when it counts the most.

I have seen many graphics about how students remember the way teachers made them feel far more than they remember specific learning that happened in class.  I can attest this this with my experiences many years ago as the teachers that made such a difference in my life gave me direction, whether they meant to or not.  Simply...because they cared.

I think being intentional about making a difference in the lives of our students is not about what we do or don't do...

It's about who we are as humans.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Taking a journey of relaxation

Today, during a brain break with my students, I decided to do something that I have not done with them as of yet.  I decided to take one of my honors classes that seemed stressed about everything on a personalized journey.

I did a 10-minute, guided imagery relaxation exercise with them.

So summarize their journey,

I had the students get comfortable and I turned off the lights leaving just the light from the windows on this cloudy day.  I played some soft Native flute music while I asked them to follow the path of my voice.

I asked them to keep their eyes closed, but to see in their mind that they are in a beautiful forest.  I had them look around noticing trees, water, wildlife, etc.  I had them take a slow walk on a soft-sandy trail.  They met up with someone that they loved very much and they smiled at each other.  No words were exchanged, just the feelings of calm, safety, love, caring, and pride.  I had them walk the path with this person paying attention to the way that they felt...calm, loved.

When the session was over, my students were in awe.  Several were in tears claiming that they felt like water flowing and floating in air as they opened their eyes and it was making them feel so very happy.  Some students with anxiety issues were tearing up and told me that they have not felt this relaxed in years.

A group of girls asked me if I was a wizard because they feel so refreshed and ready for the day.

This was a good experience. Easy gifts of caring to relieve stress are always good experiences.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Mutual Respect

One of my classes has been a little frustrating to get started lately. I am not one to yell or rush to calling students out....or for that matter punishment.  This is a great group of students.

I sat down so I was at their level and ask them, "What are we going to do about this?"

This created a whole-class discussion where I simply sat and listened.  I only responded when I was directly addressed.  I allowed my students to problem solve in a respectful manner with each other.  After about 15-minutes, with no frustration or stress on my part, the class came up with some suggestions for me to consider.  They also owned their parts and made specific plans to change the beginning of class behaviors.

Did I teach them to do this?

Well...Kinda.

How?

I show them respect daily.

I do not talk down to or at my students, I talk with them.

I expect whole-class discussions during our learning.

I expect mutual respect.

I always offer choices.

I respect student opinions always.

I empower self-regulation in my students. 

I will consider their options and bring one to the table next time we meet.

The rest of the class went wonderfully.  There was no animosity, pouting, or hurt feelings.  Just mutual respect knowing what our roles were and our expectations for the class to be successful.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

A little Self-Regulation

Self-Regulation has many definitions and places within the world of education.  I have focused on allowing my students to become more self-sufficient learners while reflecting on what works for them...and what doesn't, while making informed choices in their learning that will bring them towards their goals.

I am currently writing on this...which means that I am also researching it now.  But, I have been practicing this with students for about 5-years now with a lot of success.

I want my students to become self-directed learners which will allow them to expect more from their teachers when they are in high school.

Also, in bringing my students to this mind, the mind of choice and empowerment, my students advocate for themselves and what they need.  They no longer settle for sub-par learning and require challenging work that can be proven to help them to grow.

Why am I expecting so much of my students?

I have found that the more I believe that my students are capable of, the more they show the confidence to try things beyond the levels that they are accustomed.

I am looking forward to writing this book and talking more about it in my blog and other articles.

In general, we need to know what our students truly need, not what a curriculum tells us that they need.  There is more to learning than the academics...students need to learn who they are as learners and that they are the ones in charge of their journeys and successes.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

No Politics

I am a history teacher.  I do not like politics.  Not at all.  Not in the very least.  One might say that politics stress me out and I would rather stay away from things that stress me.

As the divides in our country and on a local level due to politics continue, I am seeing the effects on my students.  Maybe it is indirectly, but it is there.  There is a level of stress and uneasiness that I have never encountered.  My students are probably reacting to family and community members talking and arguing, the mass media and social media displays that are so one sided and play one side of the truth to such an extreme that it is almost impossible to tell what is real anymore.

The word Propaganda came up today.  A new word for most of my students.  One of my students looked it up and the class all agreed that it is what we see daily on the news, commercials, and social media.

I had a hard time disagreeing with them.

Adults can (or can't) handle what is happening in our country, in our world, and locally...that doesn't mean that our kids can.  Even if they are unaware...they are still affected by the stress it all causes to ones that they love and care for.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

The Coasting Student

Now that we are over a month into the new school year, I am noting some trends that I can now spend some effort on correcting.  The first of these trends that I started with today is the "Coasting Student."

The Coasting Student:

This student is an expert at finding a way to do as little as possible.  They buy an entire wardrobe so they can blend into the paint color of the back wall.  They are quiet enough and able to look busy enough to go undetected for sometimes years at a time.  Somehow, they learn enough to stay at the lower end of good enough.

Do you have any students like this?

Yep, I thought so...

My students do their note-taking and writing on templates that I assign to them on Google Classroom on Docs.  This means, I can drop in and see their progress.  I can give instant feedback.  It is wonderful.  I can confer with as many students as I want to at the same time while they are working.  I can make comments, suggestions or give guidance in real time.

For those Coasting Students...I have been simply monitoring their "work"...I think calling it work might be a little bit generous.

Today, I brought around collections of their "work" as I sat down and let them know that this is not the way that I see learning happening in my class.  We went over their "work" for the past couple of weeks and made specific plans to create improvement.

I know these students might prefer that I wasn't so aware...but I am...for their own good.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Being in the Now

As I look at my schedule for this week, it is way too easy to become overwhelmed.  I have things nightly right after school every day.  It is easy to feel under water before the week even begins.  This is what I would call a full week.  Not an easy forecast while I am trying to feel better after getting a bug late last week.

When we get to this point and look at our calendars and freak...

We have two choices.

1.  We can allow the load of the week to pull us down and lay heavily on our minds.

OR

2.  We can take things one at a time.  Day by day.  Living in the moment.

When we get bogged down with the "too much to do" mindset, we tend to live in the pile of things that we have to get done.  When this happens, we do very little well.  We also do not do ourselves emotional or physical good in the process.

As teachers, we need to be in the moment for our students.  We need to be present to be effective.

If we choose #2, all of those things on our calendar will still be there.  We can still cross them off one at a time.  By our minds can focus only on the task that we are involved in NOW.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

A little Caring

I had a student come up to me this week and ask why they were not in my class.  I had to explain that I only teach a couple of 7th grade classes and I have no say in the students that end up in my class.

This student, a girl, has a long history of getting in trouble in school.  In fact, her siblings also have a history of getting in trouble on a regular basis.

I have been connecting with this students since the beginning of the year.  She doesn't know this, but I know her history.  I act as though I have no idea about her troubled past... Instead, I only have a little fun with her and let her know that she is valued and important.  I show her that I am glad that she chooses to come say hi to me and hang near me as I stand in the hallway in the morning and give fist-bumps and high-fives to the students passing by.

"Boy, you everyone's favorite...ain't you"

"I am not sure about that.  I am just happy to see all of these wonderful students and I want them all to have a great day, that's all."

It doesn't take much to help a troubled student to turn things around.  Sometimes, just reminding them that they matter and not bringing up a troubled past is enough to help a student turn things around.

What I do isn't magic.  I just care.  I just show a troubled student that they are worth my time and look for what is great about them.  I remind them daily.  This can make a huge difference in the mindset of many.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Student Compassion

Today, I wasn't feeling so good.  I had a scratchy throat, blocked ears, itchy eyes, a rough stomach, and it was hard to talk.  I felt weak and a bit of the chills.  I decided to push through.  I wanted to be with my students.  I wanted to keep the momentum going and the engagement that we have been working on so much since the start of the school year.

It was worth it.

We made wonderful progress in various aspects of our work.

But...

More importantly,

My students took great care of me.  They made me promise the day before to do my mini-lessons as a dramatic read today.  I just couldn't I was not up to it nor was my voice.  I couldn't bring myself to the silly actor place that we get to go as teachers.  I was barely hanging on as it was.

My students understood.  They didn't push it.  Not only that, but they took care of me in other ways.  They worked without me asking them to be quiet or to get back on task.  They asked others around them to stay quiet as they policed their peers in order to make sure I was okay.

Students are amazing in this way.

They can be frustrating at times.  They can be obnoxious at times.  They can be immature at times.

But...when you need them to be great, they are amazing!

Care about your students and the caring that you get back will be way more than you'd expect.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

A Night with an Author

What a wonderful night.  I am so lucky to work in a middle school building and district that embraces literacy to such a high level.  We also love our YA Literature and authors.  Tonight, we had a visit from the incredible author of the book, Bird.  Yes, Crystal Chan came to our building and  spend some quality time with kids and parents.



She spent over an hour hanging out with everyone and then another hour talking about her books and journey as an author.  She was amazing, the kids were amazing...what a great night.



Having inspirational events like this where teacher and parents, along with our students is the true meaning of educational community.

We need to embrace these moments.  I think I will embrace the experience again in a couple of weeks when Andrew Smith drops by to talk about his new book...




Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

An honest talk

I had a heart to heart talk with my students today.  I let them know what I have been seeing in class that has been frustrating me and standing in the way of even more growth than we have already seen.  I took clear ownership of my parts and let the students talk about what they see themselves doing to stand in the way of making each class meeting truly count.

The conversation was honest, authentic, vulnerable, and real.  I never talk down to my students, and this was no exception.  We had true conversation as we partnered to reflect on the academic behaviors of the past week.  We kept it positive and complimented each other on what was working really well.

This 15-20 minute conversation was the catalyst to an amazing class.  It also strengthened the bonds of the community in each class.  You can tell we are now closer and trust each other.  This is the perfect environment, now, for honest reflection leading to amazing work and partnership in growth.

This was an authentic SEL lesson for all involved.  It was not pushed, nor was it fake.  It was real and in the moment.

We all need to know that we are valued and are still loved, even when we fail.  We all need "real" in our lives to build the trust that will allow us to speak freely of what we need.  Once this culture is created, it opens the doors and the windows for continued work.

I am so proud of my students.

I am proud of me.

I am proud that I can be in a place where this type of magic can occur.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Missing real connections

Every now and then I get an email or some type of connection from a past student that has wonderful news to report.  This week, I got an email from a past student that is a senior this year.  She is in the top 10 of her class and she got into the college of her dreams.

She explained to me that she has had some wonderful teachers in High School to this point, but her real connections with teachers that hold meaning to her were during her middle school experience.

I asked her for her theory on why this differences exist.

She came up with the following list.

High School Teachers...

Seem like they have no time for students.

Are more involved in sports at the school.

Take on other things that they get paid stipends for.

Have more of a life outside of school than my middle school teachers.

Do not connect with students.

Are just there to teach the material.

Have less personality than my middle school teachers.

Some of these surprised me, while others did not.  One thing is for sure...this list made me sad.  At the same time, I am so glad that my past student had the teachers that she had at middle school to influence her and become life-long connections for her.

Again, I am sure there are some great teachers at her high school.

Even though this list was about "them", I think I will reflect on this list to make sure that I am well aware that I do not ever fit any of these categories with or for my students.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#MIndfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

An off Day

Today made me sad.  My students were not the best behaved.  In fact, they were completely disrespectful.  After talk to other staff members in the building, they reported the same thing...some even worse.

What is going on?

Full moon?

Something in the water?

Rebellion?

Or...

My students are feeding off of stress that I am feeling about so many changes in our building and a few new things thrown at me this morning....

Students truly do feel our stress.  They react when we are not "right" with things.  They can sense it.  The same way that students can tell when teachers are lying or not being real or genuine.  We act or react in a way that makes our students feel nervous.  They can sense that things are not right and that makes them feel uneasy or even unsafe.

As teacher, we need to slow down and patiently self-reflect before blaming our students for their behaviors.  Behaviors are usually a sign that something is missing or needed.  They can also be reactions to un-noticed emotions in our kids.  We are the adults.  We need to start with what we see and feel within ourselves before we jump to the wrong conclusions or blame.

After some reflection, I realized about 10 things that made ME off today before the day started.  Did my "stuff" impact my kids?  I am pretty sure the answer is yes.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

3-word Mindfulnesss Meditation

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The 3-word meditation:

I have a brief moment of silence in my school in which students are encouraged by the announcements of the day, to reflect, pray, or simply sit in silence.  I have used this time for many years to do a 3-word meditation.

I am very used to this and come up with the 3-words that I need in the moment.  I suggest that you begin by listing three things that you want to be... be focused on... for the day and when the time is right, just before teaching, use these three words in a brief meditation.

Some sample words for me are:

Focus
Intentional
Quiet
Compassion
Appreciation
Gratitude
Positive
Support
Praise
Relax
Present
Love
Care
Partner

When it is time to meditate, I shut my eyes.  I exhale.  As I inhale, I think the word to myself and see a vision of what that looks like in my day.

For example.  It my word is support, I envision myself supporting my students throughout the day.

I then exhale, and do the process over and over with all three words.

This sets my path for my day.  It is mindful.  With this, I am not mindlessly living my day.  My day has purpose and direction.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Gratitude

I have been hearing more and more about living with Gratitude.  Brene Brown talks at great length about the significance of Gratitude.  She is a master at understanding things like Shame and Gratitude.  I strongly encourage everyone to check out all of her talks and books.   https://brenebrown.com/

grat·i·tude

ˈɡradəˌt(y)o͞od/

noun

1. the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

   "she expressed her gratitude to the committee for their support"

   synonyms:

   gratefulness, thankfulness.

We often live life in the moment enough, but we are not living intentionally.  What I mean is that we are often living on a reactionary autopilot and allowing our emotions to ride the rollercoaster of the day.

If we are intentionally living with a mission of gratitude, we are constantly looking for ways that we can show it and allow its impact.  Thankfulness does not need a reason or cause to thank someone...it needs a positive mindset and the awareness of all that you have to be thankful for in your life.  If we can focus on our true happiness and content with what is great in our lives....Gratitude will exude from us and become contagious to those around us..

It's the weekend!

Approaching the weekend as a teacher is an interesting phenomenon.

I get excited for the weekend and look forward to the relaxing time and allowing myself to take care of myself.

Friday night

I sit in the yard, and get ready for dinner.  By now, I am so tired that I find myself falling asleep.  I want to go out, but...no way!  I go to sleep after taking care of a few chores, some writing, and a few errands here and there.  I am out like a light and have huge plans for Saturday.

Saturday

I try to wake early to catch English Premier League soccer on TV that starts at 5:30 am CST.  Most of the time...I roll over and fall asleep.  Then...it is errands and chores time.  I try to get most of them done so I could have less to do on Sunday.  I know Sunday is already pretty full and I would like another day with some Me Time.

Saturday night

I got most of what I wanted to get done, but as I am getting it done, I realize a million things that also need to be done.  The list continues to grow.  I look for some writing time and ways to get things done to lighten my load for Sunday.  It is late, and I am finally getting to sleep.

Sunday

My day begins with my writing group or "Church" as we like to call it.  It is my time to write, think, gossip, talk about how things are going in our classes (we all teach together).  This luxury take me until about 1 pm.  It is then home to immediately get started on school work with chores done during every break.  Before I know it, it is evening.

Sunday night

I do a little writing before the Twitter Chats begin.  I spend a little time on my three favorite shorter chats and then it is back to work for me.  I get my clothes ready for the week.  I am tired.  It is late.  It is time for an  audio book and dreams of an extra weekend day that rarely comes.  I wake up and hope it is still Sunday night... It is not.  It is time to get ready for the week.

So...If I were to multiply this by 4 or 5, we would be talking about my wife's weekend schedule.  I get exhausted thinking about hers so I will not attempt to explain her weekend teacher's schedule.

The thing is...

I get up on Monday, have my coffee, and the kids come in with energy.  I forget that I am tired.  I connect with the kids.  And...before you know it, it is Friday again.

Life flies by as a teacher.  Tired or not, I choose to be in the moment and enjoy each minute before there are no more.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Curriculum Night

Tonight is curriculum night.  We are over 4-weeks in and this is our chance to allow parents to follow their student's schedule and see that their days look like.  It is an opportunity for teachers to explain the learning and growth expected to happen in their classrooms. We get to brag a little about the progress that we have seen so far in our wonderful students.

I love that we get to give our parents a glimpse into the day of their students.  I want parent to be fully aware of what their kids are up against.  The growth expectations have never been higher.  The pace of growth expected never faster.  I want this to be an opportunity for parents to realize a little bit of empathy for their kids.

Is that bad?

I think not.

Our kids have jobs 36 hours a week.  To learn.  To grow.  To cope.  To balance.  To create a social self.  To grow in capacity and confidence.

When we all understand the realities of a situation, we can best work together as a team and support our students.

A special thanks to the parents that come out tonight and are genuinely invested in their students' education!

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

This IS the reason!

I spend almost every minute that I can in the hallways at our school, during passing periods.  I am there for a few reasons...

1.  I am there to be present in case someone is having a bad day and makes a bad decision.  I can help to intervene and be as proactive as possible.  There are very few fights in our building.  I attribute this to the active staff that keep a watch over things to make sure everyone is safe and having the best experience possible.  This is NOT the main reason that I am in the hallways.

2.  I am there to assist students with their lockers.  Sometimes they jam too much in their lockers and they get stuck.  I help them open their lockers...sometimes with a key, sometimes with a screwdriver.  This is NOT the main reason that I am in the hallways.

3.  I am in the hallways to create relationships with students that are not in my classes.  I am also there to keep my students smiling with fist bumps and high-fives, words of encouragement, and a big smile on my face.  I acknowledge every student in the hallway.  I want all students to know they are important and matter.  I want all students to feel connected and safe.  I want students to learn from hallway behaviors that relationships are essential to having the best days.  I want this to spread into all of the classrooms...not just mine.  This IS the main reason that I am in the hallways!

We are teachers not just to teach.  It is about the little things that we do in the in-between that matters as much, if not more than the instruction.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

It takes balance

Today was a difficult day to maneuver.  It, of course, was 9/11.  I am a history teacher.

On one hand, there is an unspoken understanding to teach my students of the events of that day and the war that has followed the event that still exists in forms still today. 

These 13-year olds have known war their entire lives.

On the other hand, I had students explaining to me that they feel tired of learning about the event every 9/11 due to the way that it makes them feel.  They do not like the emotional response that it brings out in them.

When I asked, "isn't that the point?  To learn about things in history that makes us feel something so we can use those emotions to assure ourselves that history does not repeat itself?"

I agreed, that teaching this each year on the anniversary of the event is rough for many.  I also explained that we do so to memorialize those that lost their lives and those effected by the incident.

Teaching middle school American History requires a sensitive touch.  I want to take care of my students and protect them from the bad out in the world...but at the same time- I want my students to know the truth.  I want them to make informed decisions now, as middle school students...so as they mature, they can refine their thinking and decide what it is they will do to make the world a better place.

It takes balance.  It take finesse.  It takes caring and being willing to create a safe environment for very emotional thinking.

I love what I do.  I care deeply about my kids.  It is well worth the work.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

We are worthwhile

I had a conversation with a student that is not used to being complimented on her work...or getting positive feedback for that matter.  At first, she thought that I was joking around with her or being sarcastic. 

When she realized that I was being serious, she got tears in her eyes and said, "thank you.  I am only used to hearing what I am doing wrong."

In life, we often fall into the trap of only reminding others when they are doing wrong.  We take for granted to things that they do well because that is what is expected.  Somewhere down the line, we learned that when we are told what we are not good at...that somehow we will magically say, "Oh...now I get it.  I am completely fixed and will do everything right from this point forward."

This is NOT how life works.

We need to focus on what is right...what is good...what has positive meaning.  If we spend more time telling others what they are doing well, they will eventually figure out their shortcomings and greet them with confidence.  If we help others to feel good about themselves and what they are doing...they are certainly more motivated to grow, get better, try harder.

We all want to feel worthwhile.  It feeds our egos and makes us proud of who we are and the work that we do!

When we are constantly told that we are a failure...that is what we will be...because that is what we begin to believe we will always be.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

It's for the kids

We all want what is best for kids.  Every teacher that I have ever met ultimately wanted to do right by the students that they serve.  I am learning more and more that some teachers have incredible intentions, but at times, miss the mark on allowing their intentions and actions being in sync with each other.

For anyone who knows me...truly knows me, I am not a fan of politics on any level.

Our teachers union is going through some arguing lately that seems to mirror the politics of the nation.  It is either you are on team A or team B.  There is little grey area and the words being said are cutting and unfortunately lasting.

It bothers me and I take it personally when it appears that they teachers union is complaining about what is in it for the teachers.  Maybe something is wrong with me, but I didn't get into teaching for me, per se.  I am here for the kids.  I want what is best for the kids and I will figure out how to fit that into my life as best as I can.

I am well aware of the philosophy that is...take care of me and I will take care of the kids.  But...when that is not entirely possible, we do not give up on the kids. This element of being a teacher should always be a constant.

I am and always will be for the kids.  My life is about my students.  All else will fall into place in good time.  I am not going to lose sight of why I am here.

Stay aware of your heart's mission.  Be mindful of your purpose, also referred to as your "Why" by many.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Fall Emotions

It feels like fall today.

Fall offers very enticing emotions.

It is hoodie weather, High School Football is in full swing, and the nights smell like burning pine as the smoke of neighborhood campfires warm backyard conversations.

I really enjoy the emotional responses that the changing of the season brings.

Very often, the smells and tastes of the newly started season offers us memories from our past.  They remind us of a time when...

Things were more simple...

We spent time with a lost group of friends...

Our dreams were just beginning....

We still had loved ones around that we have since lost to time...

Regardless what the changing of the season represents, we are left with two choices in which to reflect upon mindfully-

We can look at what a wonderful experience life has been for us to this point.

-OR-

We can belabor all of the hardships and miseries that we have encountered.

The choice is ours.  Yours...and...mine.

We owe it to ourselves to exist in the wonderful and keep ourselves intentionally enjoying life.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

The art of Middle School drama

Yes, drama exists in Middle Schools in America.  It certainly exists in my world and in the middle school that I am lucky enough to call home.  It is almost a rite of passage.  It is part of growing up.  During my Adolescent Psychology courses, I remember these students being called "Marginal Man" in that they are truly lodged in the in-between.

These students are looking to belong.  They are trying on what they perceive as adult emotions and actions.  They are experimenting and seeing that happens when they ______.

I am finding that social media has made drama a new art form.  There as so many APPs to help facilitate the drama and even bullying. 

When I talk of drama, am I referring to teen girls?

Not entirely, but this week...definitely.

And with a gem called snapchat, the drama in amplified.

This gift of electronic bullying and drama allows middle school students to invest time and energy in an anonymous journey towards hurting others for the sake of their own self-worth.

Needless to say, this make me sad.  It makes me sad that the students that I am caring about daily are involving themselves in this cruelty.

What is the answer?  How is this solved?

Students that are confronted with empathy and awareness while seeing what their actions are honestly doing to others is a start.  When they become aware of the hurt and mindful of the cause and effects of their actions, they can begin to reflect on their behavior.

This is what I believe.  This is what I intend on proving to the students in my building and on my watch.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Mutual Care-taking

I have had my students now for a bit over 3-weeks.  We are getting into the grove, as it were.  I know student names, I have a good idea of personalities, and there is a gradual sense of comfort in all six classes.  Students are comfortable enough to joke around with me and they are respectful enough to stand up for me and my expectations.

I love how kids take care of me.

I wasn't feeling my best this morning and my students obviously could sense it.  They were quiet, got to work quicker, and we extremely kind to one another.

This makes me proud of my students on so many levels.

This behavior shows respect, maturity, and awareness.  They are very much in the present and can feel the difference in the room.  They notice someone is in need. 

They are NOT on autopilot! 

I believe that I credit my routines in class.  I also credit the way that I treat my students...I talk to and with them...not at them.

A classroom is the perfect environment for mutual respect and care-taking.  It is easy to get there is both sides are truly aware of the culture set.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Journey Explained Vol. 4

A couple of days ago, my post was about my writing journey this year.

I posted several consequences of writing for 245 days in a row...


What happens when you write for 245 days in a row?

Below take an in-depth look at three of the many that I have noticed.

You can talk about the writing process with your students with authentic empathy.

You grow as a writer and a reflective person.

You change the mission and purpose of your writing.

1.  You can talk about the writing process with your students with authentic empathy.

When you write, you are well aware of the process and how difficult that it can be.  You know what it takes to get words on paper.  When you are watching your students write, you can truly share your process and what you do when ____ happens.

2.  You grow as a writer and a reflective person.

I have found that my thinking is more free as I dive deeper into my writing.  I am able to be open and honest within my refections as a person.  I can feel myself writing in my head even when I am not near the computer or paper.  My mind is being changed to be more observant of my world and more aware of my place in my world.

3.  You can change the mission and purpose of your writing.

By writing regularly, you get to know yourself as a writer.  You also become routined in your process and once the process works, it allows you to review...reflect...and make some changes to make your writing more to your liking.

Reflections and Awareness.  Writing allows for these gifts.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Journey Explained Vol. 3

A couple of days ago, my post was about my writing journey this year.

I posted several consequences of writing for 245 days in a row...


What happens when you write for 245 days in a row?

Below take an in-depth look at three of the many that I have noticed.

You develop a writing style of your own.

You become self-inspired to take on more writing projects.

You learn the realities of being a writer.



1.  You develop a writing style of your own.

We all develop a style of doing things after we repeat them often.  We might have a style of cutting the grass, cooking, or sorting out laundry.  Writing is no different.  After a while, your writing style becomes apparent.  With quantity...and a little quality  mixed in, it is evident what your style truly is.  The wonderful thing that I have noticed is that when we become aware of our style, we can make deliberate and intentional changes to our style to become more of the writer that we want to be.

2. You become self-inspired to take on more writing projects.

The more writing I have done, the more confident I have become in my writing.  Or..I am willing to take more risks in trying new things.  I am nowhere near where I want to be as a writer, but I am on my way enough to allow myself to experiment with other projects such as articles and guest blog posts.

3.  You learn the realities of being a writer.

When we are simply thinking about writing, we can often be unrealistic.  We can also self-talk ourselves out of writing due to a lack of confidence.  When we are actually writing, we know what is real about our writing life, and what requires more attention.  Most of the time, I am finding that people are very surprised that they can actually do it...and better than they thought that they could!  

Writing is very personal and works into peoples' lives in many different ways.  We all have our journey.  They key is taking the step and staying mindful of our process and progress along the way.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy

@LevineWrites

Journey Explained Vol. 2

A couple of days ago, my post was about my writing journey this year.

I posted several consequences of writing for 245 days in a row...


What happens when you write for 245 days in a row?

Below take an in-depth look at three of the many that I have noticed.


Your writing becomes a mirror for you.

You take more and more risks in your writing.


You learn about yourself as a writer.

1. Your writing becomes a mirror for you.

If your writing is truly honest, you will be able to see the real you as you look deep within the words that you create.  You will notice the things that make you who you are.  You will also notice your beliefs, your strengths, and weaknesses.  If you are lucky, you will certainly see your own writer's evolution.

2. You take more and more risks in your writing.

When writing daily, you become less intimidated by your thoughts and your words.  You become more honest and will to try on...being a bit more real as time and writing moves along.  When you reach a certain point, your comfort level gets to the point that your authentic writer-self will allow you to write from your soul, not from you mind alone.

3.  You learn about yourself as a writer.

All writers have a "style" to their words and writing.  Some are good, some not so good.  Regardless, it is your style.  You also are able to reflect on where you feel your next steps for growth as a writer exist as you see things in your writing patterns that can use growth or refining.

Writing is a process.  Writing is a reflection.  The more we can become aware of the "ME" in writing, we can become mindful of who we are and see opportunities for growth.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

Journey explained Vol. 1

Yesterday, my post was about my writing journey this year.

I posted several consequences of writing for 245 days in a row...


What happens when you write for 245 days in a row?

Below take an in-depth look at three of the many that I have noticed.

You learn a lot about yourself.

You get accustomed to considering the tiniest of elements of your life.

You get really acquainted with your beliefs.

1.  You learn a lot about yourself.

When you go back and read your work, you see where your mind has been.  You see your thinking and the patterns that exist within your thinking.  You see the words that you choose and the tone of your thoughts.  Your attitude and belief system become more and more clear.

2.  You get accustomed to considering the tiniest of elements of your life.

Writing regularly allows you to see the levels in which you think and write.  You start to notice the large ideas and thinking while also being able to notice the tiny details that rise in your writing, as important.  You also notice, while writing, that tiny details matter and make up the whole of who you are as a person and as a writer.

3.  You get really acquainted with your beliefs.

When writing daily, it becomes evident what your beliefs and values are.  You can see patterns in word choice and writing content that paint a very clear picture of the essence of your beliefs.

I am learning that if you really want to know your soul... Write!

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites

The Writing Journey

What happens when you write for 245 days in a row?

You learn a lot about yourself. 

You get accustomed to considering the tiniest of elements of your life.

You get really acquainted with your beliefs.

You create an interesting habit with mini-habits built in.

Your writing becomes a mirror for you.

You take more and more risks in your writing.

You learn about yourself as a writer.

You create a record of your thoughts to return to.

You develop a writing style of your own.

You become self-inspired to take on more writing projects.

You learn the realities of being a writer.

You can talk about the writing process with your students with authentic empathy.

You grow as a writer and a reflective person.

You change the mission and purpose of your writing.

I certainly realize that most of these things listed about could use some explanation and exploration.  It is my intent to write about these 14 changes in detail as I approach my 250th daily blog post (without interruption) in the next 5-days.  I hope you will take the time to join me as I make an intentional effort to reflect on this journey with more specifics. 

Thanks so much to anyone who has been visiting my blog.

Be Mindful.

Peace.

Mark Levine

#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites