From B106: Gabe Kaplan, Vinnie Barbarino, and Good Work

Welcome back!  I can hardly write that line, especially at the beginning of the school year, without adding “Kotter.”

You see, I graduated from Hesston High School in June of 1975 and started my first day as a teacher in August of 1979.  Interestingly enough—at least to me—those are the same years in which Gabe Kaplan and the young John Travolta starred in the sitcom “Welcome Back, Kotter.” 

Those of you of a certain age probably remember Mr. Kotter from watching the weekly show.  Because of the numerous reruns, others of you may also know of Vinnie Barbarino, Arnold Horshack, Juan Epstein, Boom Boom Washington, and the Sweathogs.  If not, check this picture as a reminder.

I haven’t seen an actual episode of “Welcome Back, Kotter” for years and years, but I recall it made some interesting points about teaching and caring for tough students.  Mr. Kotter told lots of stories, built strong relationships with his students, and created a classroom that met his students’ individual needs.  For Kotter, the job wasn't easy, but it was good work and it made a difference. 

That is, of course, the point Matt was making last Tuesday about his vision for Hamilton Southeastern High School, which he summarized as Know, Teach/Do, Care. 

• Know: Know your content, how to break it down into teachable chunks, and what you want to accomplish in each lesson.
• Teach/Do: Teach using the best practices you know and continue adding to the toolbox.
• Care: Care by getting to know each student well and meeting individual needs of all HSHS students.

If we do these things, like Kotter, we will be doing good work.

The Characteristics of “Good Work”

Daniel Goleman, in a New York Times article, cites research about what characterizes “good work” in any field.  He summarizes the following:

• You are highly competent and effective at what you do.
• The work expresses your ethical values and is aligned to your mission in life.
• The job gives a pleasing sense of engagement—in a word, joy.

The educators I know never shy away from the hard work.  At times, however, we can become overwhelmed by all the demands of the job, and the joy of our work can fade.  One way to retain the joy is by taking a good hard look at what is going on in this building.  The work we are doing is extremely important, we are having a positive impact on thousands of students, and we work with great people.  We are in this together and moving in the same direction.  It is amazing to be a part of this journey.

So welcome back, HSE.  The year is off and running.  Keep up the good work.  May your year be filled with professional growth, with strong relationships, and with joy.

Phil

PS: Kudos to the Guidance Department for getting 3,000 students scheduled and into classes. That is also nothing short of amazing!