Every definition for this word - noun, adjective, and verb form - can be connected to education, students, teachers, and the mission of any school at any level.
Keys have one primary purpose: to open locks. As educators, we work to open doors for our students on a daily basis. So, do we view ourselves as a skeleton key, pass key, keyless entry, or the keeper of the deadbolt? Where does our teaching style place us? Are we someone willing to open any door, to release any obstacle as easily and creatively as we can? Do we provide a universal key or expect students to find their own?
Keystone is an important word when you grow up in Pennsylvania as I did. In case you don't remember from elementary geography classes, Pennsylvania is known as the Keystone State because it was in a pivotal position on the Eastern seaboard, centrally located in the Thirteen Original Colonies. I believe high school is the keystone to a student's future, the block which extends or connects the first 9 years and links him to his future. In a more intimate sense, teachers are the keystone for a family and the children, keeping them connected to everything education has to offer and the student's needs. The arch can't stand without the keystone connecting block. Are you the best connection you can be?
Key or tone reminds us that when everything is right where it should be in music, the melody is positively moving no matter what music genre you enjoy. What tone do you use with your students? On your off-key days, can you still reach out to each of them?They do and will react to that tone via email, webinars, and online discussion boards.
Keyed up each day to open your emails,check for submissions, listen to voice messages? Or are you tired enough on a regular basis that you dread it? Regain that excitement in whatever way possible. Students deserve to hear and share the enthusiasm you bring to learning. In my experience, nothing is more infectious to young people than enthusiasm!
Finally, did you know one of the definitions for key is "cardinal?" Cardinal means "of first or highest importance" as in cardinal number. Always think of teaching as the key to the students' success; the school being the key to the future; and teachers always making student needs of the highest cardinal importance. In all ways, you are key.
Reflection: Are you the key to success for a learner or an obstacle? If you let down or dismiss a student, you may not be the best teacher you can be. What more can you do or do differently to make sure you are meeting your own potential so you can underscore theirs?
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