0 Too Many Emails: No More!

Posted by Atsumori. Category:

Yes, it's true I send too many emails.

No one will deny it.

Up until this point, I've realized this fact, but I've been obliged to send those emails since there were so many unanswered questions as we moved beyond the factory model to learning communities in so many ways.

The start of this year marked some amazing changes including more time for teacher collaboration and planning, greater structure with regard to new curriculum initiatives, and refined system-wide goals.  The stage is set for less emails and deeper, more targeted work.  This is a terrific change.

So how will I share without all those emails.

Here's the plan:

• Newsletters/Home Study Links.  Every Thursday I'll publish a newsletter and home study link.  I will send the link out to family members and colleagues who request the share--otherwise people can check the newsletter/home study website or web page links. 
• Specific Questions: When possible I'll ask these questions in person. The extended collaboration/planning time available will help with this.  If needed, I'll have to email.
• General Questions and Growing the Program: I'll continue to reflect on growing the program and general questions related to curriculum, projects, and schools in general.  I will post those questions on my blog and move forward with the activity unless anyone objects. Hence, with regard to program growth, research, and questions, those who are interested can read the blog to keep up or meet with me to discuss the plans.
• Response.  I will continue with the protocol of responding to all emails sent my way even if the response is a quick "thank you," "Yes!," or "I'm thinking. . ."  I believe emails deserve a response and wonder why that belief is not embraced by all.
• Ask. If I can help you, ask me.  I am happy to share the work I do with and for students with any colleague near and far if I'm able. I won't bring the share to you via email, but if you'd like it stop by or send me an email; I mostly keep up on emails.

So today starts the email efficiency effort--yes, I hear that resounding sigh of relief from colleagues near and far!  

Thanks to all who worked to add the collaboration and planning time to the schedule.  Thanks to those who have made our tech tools and infrastructure strong and facile.  Thanks to those who coordinated substantial curriculum planning and mapping activities in the spring.  Thanks to a team that's willing to meet weekly at PLCs and a weekly grade-level meeting.  Thanks to the special educators (Kristin, Michelle, Gretchen), assistants (Mike, Marcia), specialists (Beth), and interventionists (Deb) who were willing to make the time during the prep days to discuss the curriculum, map the initial plans, and work with our team.  Thanks to the principal (Mr. Lee) who gave a brief, pointed introduction with all the necessary nuts and bolts, and spent time later discussing specific issues.  Thanks to the superintendent (Dr. Stein) who started the year with focus, goals, and care.  

Wow!  Substantial growth and change are in place, so less need for zillions of emails with questions, ideas, comments, and thoughts.

Time to dig in to teach the children well!

Tweet

Komentar →