Tools for Educators

THE BUTTERFLY CIRCUS (2009)

The Butterfly Circus is a short independent film, created by Joshua and Rebekah Weigel in 2009. This film can be used for a multitude of purposes. Use it as part of your Freshmen Academy for high school students prior to their stepping foot in your hallways on the first day. Every parent and guardian who attend a Parent Orientation can watch the film. Share it with teachers at a staff meeting to engage in reflective discussion. Watch the film with students who are in conflict with one another and pause the movie at the 3:37 mark. Ask them which character they think they most represent and share with them which character you feel they have the ability to become. Then ask if they would like to watch the remaining 16 minutes and 23 seconds of the movie. There is much to be learned from 11:20-13:00. It tells is a story within the story. The entire piece is truly transformational.

NCLA Podcast: Building Connections and Beyond

"If you can learn a name, you can change a life."
"Rapport before reports."
"Open minds lead to open doors."

Click here to tune into this episode of the NCLA podcast for these actionable nuggets of wisdom and more! Aaron Polansky is the Superintendent-Director of Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School in Rochester, MA and a speaker, author, and consultant who travels the US in his spare time. Connect with Aaron and learn more about his work here: AuthentricitySpeaks.com

Relationship Building Calendar

It takes 30 seconds to build a connection. Use this calendar to build relationship with students. Adapt the calendar to meet your needs. Relationships exist in a multitude of formats. Substitute the title of student for teacher, staff member, client, or even family member. We get out what we put in, and relationships are the foundation for all of our successes. You can the build the “we” culture, by taking a vested interest in those you are looking to lead or collaborate with.