Connecting the Dots

As educators, self-reflection is crucial. Recently, I've realized my practice has become more about 'collecting dots' –  Helping teachers teach to standardized testing and using data as a strict guideline – rather than 'connecting dots' for deeper student learning.
My district's emphasis on daily observations and PLCs focused on compliance, not fostering critical thinking or personalized instruction. Team meetings dictate specific materials and resources, leaving little room for tailoring lessons to student needs or exploring interdisciplinary connections. This structure limits my ability to create a truly engaging learning environment that ignites students' love of learning when helping teachers as an instructional coach.
The focus on standardized testing and data analysis, while valuable, overshadows the importance of Cultivating Ownership, Voice, and Agency (COVA) in students. I yearn to move beyond 'collecting dots' and empower my teachers to allow their students to become active participants in their learning journey.
This is why my journey with blended learning is essential to our new teacher program. It will allow teachers to have voice and choice with the support they need in turn provided a modeled example of how they could use this strategy in the classroom. 

Harapnuik, D. (2016) Collecting dots vs connecting dots. https://youtu.be/_7o3Jh1KZLw
Harapnuik,D.(2023) Mapping your Learners Journey - http://www.harapnuik.org/?p=6420