Encouragement For EducatorsSýnishorn

Plow Season

The beginning of the school year can be a little chaotic as you try to set a routine and pace for yourself and your students. This is what I would call, “a plowing season.” It is a critical period of time where you have to give extra attention, time, and energy so that, “the ground is prepared” so to speak, in order to plant seeds and progress with plans and projects.

What kinds of things do you have to do during this season to prepare your students for success? Expectations must be spoken and sustained from the very beginning if you have any hope of bringing order and budding academic achievement. Your syllabus, schedule, and system for communication and implementation are critical tools for “plowing” the path that will grow their confidence, as well as provide “pest control” for problems such as procrastination, late or missing assignments, lack of preparation for class or tests, and disrespect or discipline problems. Nip these in the bud and it will allow good habits and strong study skills to take root.

A healthy root brings good fruit. Ask students what they hope to learn and accomplish this year as you share your goals and expectations. Even Kindergarteners have something they know they want to learn. Teach students how to plan from harvest backwards to plowing; you reap what you sow, so show them how every day matters. Breaking huge tasks and goals down into day-by-day steps nurtures the weary and worn out teacher and student.

Prayer is the greatest nutrient for this garden you are growing—a little miracle grow if you will. (Go ahead and groan, it’s ok.) It is true, even if it sounds “corny.” Any good farmer will tell you that he prays while he plows because there are too many things he cannot control. The farmer can plow, plant, water, fertilize, weed, and build a scarecrow or two, but in the end, ONLY GOD can make the crop grow; ONLY GOD brings the harvest.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for times of preparation and plowing. I want to reap well so I look to You to help me sow well. Prepare the soil of my classroom, lesson plans, and all that we will learn this year. Prepare our hearts and minds and grow us for Your glory.