Changing the world doesn’t always mean grand gestures. As educators, small consistent actions—like showing up, building relationships, and modeling integrity—are world-changing. That same principle applies in personal life, reminding fellow educators that the quiet acts of love and responsibility matter deeply. I hope to focus on three areas: 1. Helping in the kitchen-“The classroom sink.” I want participants to gain knowledge and ideas that inspire daily habits that build classroom culture, emotional safety, and trust. (Discuss and share micro-practices that make a huge difference). Share personal practices and anecdotes. 2. “Do your own dishes-how to avoid teacher burnout.” Self-care, boundaries, and reclaiming personal identity outside of teaching. (Discuss and model self-respect and balance that teaches self- resilience. Share personal stories how I have learned this principle with 6 of my own children, working full-time, and completing a Master's Degree). Participants will create their own personal “dishes list”—daily actions that restore peace, pride, and power. 3. “Getting my kids to do the dishes”- Creating a legacy. Share stories of impactful teachers that have changed my life and the lives of my family. Discuss the hidden impacts of showing up everyday. Participants will write a legacy letter and set goals. Leave with a 30-Day Dishes Challenge handout that is a calendar-style sheet with one small, doable action each day (e.g., write a sticky note of appreciation, go tech-free for 30 minutes, smile at your toughest student, take a deep breath before replying). Conversation prompts on tables: “What’s one small act that changed your life?” “The student I teach for…” “In 20 years, I want to be remembered for…” “This is why I keep showing up…”
Format-a blend of reflective and practical strategies and discussions.
