This year has been one of much change in my professional life. I am a trained Science teacher and I now work in a role where I don’t teach any Science (there are times when I try to sneak it in, though; old habits die hard!). Taking on the role of PROPEL teacher has been an exciting, challenging, and rewarding experience for me. I have been reminded of many important lessons so far this year, learning so much from the wonderful students and colleagues I get to spend each day with. Embarking on this journey together has been one of trial and error, one that requires trust and honesty, one that has inspired me to try new things and have new perspectives. Reflecting on the year so far, I wrote a list of some life lessons that I’ve been reminded of:We only get to see a snapshot of each other’s world – let’s be slow to judge and quick to support.

People are capable of much more than they think.
It’s important to have things to look forward to; things to hope for.
Kindness and empathy are the best weapons for breaking down walls.
Having a voice brings belonging.
Challenges produce growth.
Reflection and evaluation, followed by action, is crucial to improvement.
It’s ok not to have all the answers; learning is best done in community.
Diversity enriches everyone.
Everyone needs someone championing them on.
Success looks different for everyone.
No one thing will suit everyone; embracing our differences and celebrating individual strengths is what makes us stronger.
I have a lot more to learn.
I absolutely LOVE what I do and consider it a privilege to learn alongside each of my students and colleagues.
God is so good to me; He continues to work in me and through me, despite my shortcomings.

Looking over this list, not many of them are new lessons. They are things I have learned and experienced in many seasons and circumstances over the years, but they are things that I never want to stop learning. Each of them is something that I hope to remind others of, and that I’m grateful to others for reminding me of. I’m certain that there will be many more lessons to come this year, and I’ll probably need to re-learn some of the ones I’ve listed above. I am grateful to be part of a community here at Avondale School that is committed to cultivating a love of learning. This is a community where my own kids can dream, try, fail, try again, and feel valued. This kind of community requires commitment, humility, kindness, patience, and trust.

The Message translation of 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you’ll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you’re already doing this; just keep on doing it.”

Thank you for being part of this community as we work towards learning (and re-learning) these lessons, and more, together.

Mrs Christie Venegas

PROPEL Teacher

Lessons to Keep Learning