Crossing the Threshold

As a teacher, we are human, and sometimes, humans have bad days. It's no secret that we aren't perfect. We, like students are tasked with a life filled with worries and stresses that extend outside the four school walls. Crossing the threshold is a term we use often in DrEd to commemorate the ideal of mentally leaving all our baggage from the day at the door, and stepping into the class as an educator ready to educate! "Crossing the threshold" is adapted from one of the steps from "The Hero's Journey" where the hero crosses into what was comfortable and safe to a new world of discovery. Imagine the impact of you stepping foot into your classroom believing, KNOWING that you are stepping into a world of discovery with the intent to motivate young minds and focus on THEM. In the same way we advise our students to come into the classroom bright eyed and bushy tailed, we sometimes have to remember that it's important for us to check our baggage at the door and cross the threshold into the world that is our class.

This mentality of crossing the threshold doesn't only work for teachers, but also works for students. Perhaps you find yourself with a class that is rowdy and having a hard time focusing. Have them stand up, then when they are ready take one step over an imaginary line to cross back into the class as a student ready to create, learn and play! The activity can go as far as to helping students step into roles or step into different mindsets. The activity can go a little something like this:

1. Have the class gather in one area (can be done in a circle as well, or outside of a literal door.)

2. Ask the class to close their eyes. (These activities require intent and a set up to help the student focus on the intent.)

"Let's close our eyes. We are currently grade ___ students and we are preparing to step into our classroom as the ultimate BEST version of ourselves. We prepare to listen HARD, play well and learn lots. As we cross into this version of ourselves, we're leaving all worry and stress and focusing only on the present. When you're ready, open your eyes, and walk into the space with utter confidence in your ability to learn!"

3. Open the door or welcome a step into the new world of discovery!

May we all check our baggage at the door and cross into the world of teaching!