Significant Career Lesson From a Second Grade Teacher at KIPP Northern California
Nina, an educator and 2nd grade teacher at KIPP Northern California, discovered the significant power of "going back to the drawing board" and iterating on solutions, rather than seeking a single fix for problems. This approach, coupled with the importance of celebrating successes to fuel further growth, has proven invaluable in a fast-paced career where "you need to be perfect and we need this now."
Problem-Solving, Resilience, Iterative Problem Solving, Growth Mindset, Celebrating Success
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Nina Paoloni
Educator & 2nd Grade Teacher
KIPP Northern California
The University of San Diego, Class of 2018
N/A
Psychology
Education
Education
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Iterative problem-solving is crucial: Don't be afraid to revisit and refine your approaches. Effective solutions often require multiple attempts and adjustments.
2. Celebrate successes: Acknowledge accomplishments to build momentum and maintain motivation. Avoid focusing solely on areas for improvement.
3. The teaching profession demands continuous growth: The ability to adapt, reflect, and improve is essential for long-term success in education.
Transcript
What is one lesson you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The power of the drawing board. One thing that used to get me very frustrated was the idea I held onto that a problem I had would be fixed with one solution. I learned over the years that there's actually a lot of power in going back to the drawing board and iterating on what you've already done.
I think that's a skill I will carry throughout my whole life, even if I leave teaching. Problems aren't always solved with one solution. Going back over what you did and trying to tweak it helps you grow and strengthens your thinking.
Another lesson is to celebrate successes. Our industry, and I think a lot of industries, are very "go, go, go." You need to be perfect, and you need this now. I've learned that I and most humans are wired to always focus on what we can do better.
I've learned there's a lot of power in celebrating successes and using those successes to push yourself to become better.
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