A Snowy Friday at Turning Point

Everything I am observing at TPLC is for the purpose of sharing with others – helping others to learn, true collaboration. Such an emphasis makes learning always have a purpose – besides writing a paper that a teacher reads (or may not read) and grades. Whether it’s a podcast, a tweet, or on diigo, the information is presented to others. What an incredible way to make learning seem like real life! It’s because of this value of sharing, students are enthusiastic about working and doing projects.

The teachers are truly a part of the learning community – eat lunch at various tables, not hiding out in the teacher’s lounge, acting like they can’t wait for a break from the kids. Students start coming early in the morning by 7:30 even though school doesn’t start until 8:45. Teachers arrive early too, but instead of sitting in their rooms, or in the lounge, they are sitting at the tables where the students are sitting. All are busy. Teachers are talking to each other or working online. Students are doing the same. Of course TPLC isn’t perfect. Sometimes students get tired, sometimes teachers get frustrated, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. But this is all normal. It’s refreshing to see a true learning community. All are lucky to be here!