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It's the People

The Big W

The Latin origins of the word curriculum literally means “the course to be run”. It has reference to the chariot races that were a mainstay of Roman sport and warfare. In Chinese, the translation is “lesson journey” or “lesson sequence”.  There, that covers the background of this important concept while satiating the appetite of the sinophiles.

While the majority of my current responsibilities as Curriculum Director have me focusing on the important “what” (curriculum) and “how” (instruction) of what happens at Belgrade Public Schools, my three decades as an educator won’t let me forget the “w” word that is critically important:  the “who” in education.

As parents sidle up to their child’s teacher at Parent-Teacher Conferences, hoping for a great report, there may be some apprehension. Some parents come into the school with the same fear that I feel at the dentist’s office. Parents need to know that we value their involvement in education. Next to your student, you are the “who” that best represents our school customer. 

I have worked with many teachers and staff members and I’m impressed with how they work to help children be successful. These folks are drawn to work with children, young and older, in a dynamic school setting.

Who are these people?

  • It’s the crosswalk aide who calls a child by name and smiles at her every morning---even when the snow is coming sideways as it is wont to do in Montana.
  • It’s the coach who takes extra time to help a player with his free throw shot.
  • It’s the teacher whose car is at school on the weekend as she figures out the best way to integrate technology into a lesson.
  • It’s the principal who works to know something about each student.
  • It’s the custodian who takes pride in his work and want the school to be ready for students each day.
  • It’s the paraprofessional who shows unflinching patience while explaining a skill to a struggling student. 

My “who” list isn’t complete, but I think you can get the idea. The BIG “W” in schools is not the what, but the who. I am thankful to work with such great people who work tirelessly in the trenches to make a difference for the next generation.

Mark Halgren, Curriculum Director
Belgrade Public Schools