The Difference a Word Can Make (Part One)

Have you ever thought about the difference that one word can make? Often, when I share ideas during a workshop at a school or in a school district, I’ll hear this type of comment: “That’s a great idea, but my students can’t....but my students won’t....but my principal wouldn’t like that....but I don’t think that would work in my class...” The word but can serve as a red light or a stop sign for progress. On the other hand, when I’m in a school that is making a difference with all of its students, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, poverty level, or background, I hear this: “That’s a great idea, and here’s how I can make it work with my students.” The word and is like a green light! As you work with your most challenging students, do you think in terms of but or and?