It’s hard to believe that it’s been six years since the release of The SECRET SAUCE: Essential Ingredients for Exceptional Teaching. There’s one ingredient from the book that has proven more essential than ever. It’s the fresh start.
The idea is simple: every kid gets a clean slate every day. Each day is a brand new opportunity for students to succeed. No baggage. No holding on to missteps. Nothing from yesterday should be held against a student.
Every kid deserves a fresh start. We are showing students that we believe in them. We reduce anxiety and we encourage them to take risks. We show students that it’s ok to move on from mistakes.
It’s tempting to let yesterday’s frustrations become today’s problem. When that happens, we need to take a step back. It’s when it matters most.
Six years later, I’ll celebrate the book by issuing a challenge. Tomorrow, look at your students and intentionally offer them a new beginning. See them for their potential right now. Give them that fresh start every day. It matters more than you know.
Rich
