As I sit down to write my latest #edWorthit blog, I find myself exchanging the words of Benny Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing” to “Blog, blog, blog, blog. Every teacher start to blog.” Over the past several years, I had considered starting a blog where I would share lessons and strategies for music educators. So, what stopped me from blogging? The answer is simple: fear and fatigue. I had been worried about adding another element to my already full schedule. I had also been afraid that the time devoted to blogging would be a waste.
After being named the Louisiana State Teacher of the Year, I had looked for ways to share my activities and messages about education in Louisiana. It became apparent that blogging would be the best method for sharing my message. With the help of the St. Tammany Parish School System, my blog was established. I pushed past my fear and sat down to write my first blog on August 6, 2015.
Since then, I have written over 60 blogs. Some, I’ve been able to write quickly. Others, I struggled to find the words to best express my message. As for the time factor, I have discovered that writing between 6:00-8:00 a.m. is the best time for me to write.
With all that said, I am now a great advocate of blogging. Despite the time and challenges of writing, blogging is definitely “worth it”. As many teachers throughout the country are struggling to have their voices heard, I have found that blogging has significantly amplified my voice. I’ve also loved the example that my writing has set for my students. I’ve been amazed by the number of students that have read my blogs this year. It is such a thrill to hear a student question me about my writing or quote something that I’ve written. I even have a third grade student that routinely questions me when I haven’t updated my blog. As I explain my reasons for not writing, I often can’t help but be amused by this reversal in our roles.
Although my year as the State Teacher of the Year will end in July, I know that I will continue writing in the future. The rewards from blogging greatly outweigh the fear and fatigue. If you are an educator, I would love to hear your #edWorthit reasons for blogging!
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