Page 17 - EdViewptsSpring2020

found it challenging because I was game of knockout. The dynamics
unable to stay with a specific class of the game gives great insight into For me, it’s also the
or unit of study. I was just about to the relationships between students. moments I sit down
force myself to set up a before or Developing a running club allowed me
after school group, but an informal to take another passion of mine with next to a student to
conversation with a group of fifth- a different group of students. Running get a lens into the
graders, waiting for their bus, had at a nice steady pace allowed for work they are doing.
them all sharing. They told me how great conversation (before we were
much they loved algebra, and really winded) about how their day was The more I ask students
wanted to learn more. Opportunity going. Those conversations inevitably what they are learning
knocked, and I answered! A few days led to why they excel in certain areas
later, we had started an algebra club and why they may struggle in other and if I can be of any
that was meeting weekly during their areas. During one run, a fourth grade assistance, the more I
lunchtime, which was their choice of girl plainly said, “Mr. Rattien. I know have students taking
time! Now, you might think these club it sounds silly because you probably
members are the high flier students. know your multiplication facts and I’m me up on the offer.
Nope, it’s a complete mix of students in fourth grade and should know mine.
from resource center to general math But I just can’t get those 7s, 8s, and when I walk in. This connection has
to accelerated math. Even better, this 9s. I practice it a lot but I just know I allowed me to further enhance my own
has pushed and improved my ability to can’t do it.” This student cared about skills while supporting the student’s
differentiate for these students. Now, this. Clearly. So the run gave me the growth. I leave having a deeper
there are more students asking to be opportunity to get some insight into knowledge of the different ways
in the club, which I will make happen. this student. I thought, “I won’t leave students learn and how the material
The application of teaching is crucial you hanging.” While I wish I could say is being taught. I am able to be more
for me. It’s enabled me to practice that I taught this girl those facts, the targeted and knowledgeable in the
the skill that I so often observe others teacher looked for and found another feedback I share with teachers.
doing and give feedback on. But as approach that ultimately had the
you can imagine, while we are talking student improving this skill. The connections with students have
about variables, side conversations Celebrating the academic successes been such an important component
also give me so much insight into their are such a vital part of what we do. of the work I do as a principal. Yes, I
school day. After one session, I had Thus, I visit classrooms as regularly as enjoy sitting in the cafeteria and talking
learned about all of the ins- and outs- possible to do just that. I certainly take with students, having an algebra club,
of what different groups do at recess, my fair share of pictures of students working with students in the classroom,
and why some groups tend to get in working and celebrate that on the and playing at recess. But I also get
more trouble than others! And what school’s Facebook page (fb.com/ to learn so much about the school
I have learned runs the full gamut of sbsdif). For me, it’s also the moments I from the time I spend with students.
the school, from Pre-K students to fifth sit down next to a student to get a lens The ability to connect with students
grade students. into the work they are doing. The more enhances my ability to serve in a
leadership role. When we truly listen to
Speaking of recess, I have tried to I ask students what they are learning what students are telling us, we have
take my personal passions, whenever and if I can be of any assistance, the invaluable information to help us serve
possible, and utilize them to connect more I have students taking me up them in the best possible ways.
with students as well. I join the on the offer. Sometimes, the students
students playing basketball for a proactively ask me to work with them

About the Author

Peter Rattien has served in public education for 19 years. He is currently the principal of a 650
student school, Indian Fields School (Pre-K - 5), in South Brunswick, NJ. Mr. Rattien started his
career in education in the Bronx, NY, at PS 56. He completed his undergraduate work at Ithaca
College, graduate work at Hunter College, and administrative certification at NJPSA’s Foundation
for Educational Administration's NJEXCEL program. He has presented at conferences, co-leads the
district’s annual Social Media Symposium for parents and students, and co-founded EdCamp LEAD
(@edcampLEAD) to focus on educational leadership. Follow him on twitter @prattien

Educational Viewpoints -15- Spring 2020