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Quotes That Resonate

Using powerful quotes is a nice way to get people thinking and talking. It can lead to some great discussions. I have done this several times and used quotes from many sources, including these from Ken Blanchard's The Heart of a Leader:

  • Feedback is the breakfast of champions.
  • When you stop learning, you stop growing.
  • Nurture your minds with great thoughts.
  • There are many wonderful things that will never be done if you do not do them.
  • For things to change, we must change. For things to get better, we must get better.
  • To believe in the heroic makes heroes.

When introducing those quotes in a faculty meeting, I have them printed or written on construction paper -- one quote to a page -- and displayed around the room. I ask teachers to wander the room to read and think about the quotes; I ask them to think about the quote that most resonates with them. Once teachers have had some time to wander and ponder, I ask them to "stand by the quote that speaks to you the loudest." I give the groups gathered around each quote time to discuss their thoughts.

The quotes and starter questions can be adpapted depending on a principals specific needs. Google for additional quote sources, or check out this source from Education World: Quotation a Day.

Contributor:
Bryan McLain, principal, Denton Creek Elementary School, Coppell, Texas


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