Creating a Safe Classroom That's Also Fun
I
just flew with Southwest Airlines on a flight to Florida. I love this
airline. They embody everything I believe about how to do things right
in a classroom. They have a serious business - transporting a large
group of strangers safely to their destination. We have a serious
business - educating a group of children to prepare them for their
unknown destinations.
What sets Southwest apart is the way they conduct their serious
business. And no one can deny how serious the safety of flying is in
this post 9/11 world. Southwest uses humor and kindness to get their
message across. They interact with the passengers as soon as they enter
the plane which may help quell the fears of some of the more timid
passengers. Same in the classroom. That first day...or even the first
few days...are very scar y
for some kids. A personal kind word at the door...or even a kind
look...goes a long way in removing that nervousness.
Throughout the flight, Southwest crew members use humor to convey their
very important safety regulations. They are aware that many people don't
pay attention to the various safety features of the aircraft. But by
having surprises mixed into the content, people hang on the edge of
their seats waiting for the anticipated comment. "In case of a loss of
oxygen, pull down those little margarine cups and place them over your
nose..." They're the "LUV" airline! Talk about connection!
Do we have enough surprises mixed into our content?
Do our students sit with that look of anticipation on their faces?
 Mine did when I incorporated these techniques into my teaching,
especially teaching 'Strategies of
Success.' Those
eager looks surprised me at first because I didn't see them before I
changed my teaching methods.
I used to own a business that I modeled after Southwest Airlines.
Thinking back on my teaching career, I now realize that I modeled my
teaching method after Southwest as well.
I'm looking forward to my flight home. Who knows what surprises await me
as I take my journey. Let's allow our kids feel that same anticipation.
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