It’s a known fact; I adore and deeply revere the teachings and writings of Ron Clark, master educator extraordinaire. His message in each book is inspiring, yet he is equally quick to face the brutal facts (as we all should) no matter the situation. He is all about leading each learner to greatness.
In The Essential 55, Mr. Clark showcases 55 key rules, all so 
simple and obvious yet equally powerful as life tools demonstrating exactly how each learner can become the best student and person imaginable. He notes, “I tell my students all the time, a person can have the best education in the world, but it will mean nothing if that person doesn’t treat others with kindness, have respect for the individuals he or she comes in contact with, and attempt to use the knowledge and skills they have obtained to help others.” From Rule #1, answering with “yes, ma’am or no sir,” to Rule #55, “Be the best person you can be,” the book talks about and walks through the important things in life.
While pondering The Excellent 11, Mr. Clark embraces the eleven qualities shared by children who love to learn; these same key elements are found in teachers and parents who know how to bring out the JOY of learning in any child. He pinpoints what it takes to make a great learner by sharing eleven basic characteristics (enthusiasm, adventure, creativity, reflection, balance, compassion, confidence, humor, common sense, appreciation, and resilience), why they work, and how to incorporate these into the classroom, home, and life.
Finally, studying and discussing the The End of Molasses Classes with our Miller Design Team this year has 
created great conversation about innovative ways we enliven and ignite engagement in all learners. His journey in this book is filled with successes, heartaches, mistakes, and multiple triumphs, culminating in the hugely successful Ron Clark Academy. Beware though, he is tough on parents; he believes in the power of forming bonds with each child by sacrificing to make time for the child before anything else (including work and outside extracurricular activities). As a working mom, I found myself yelling at the book while also applauding his strong commitment to personal excellence for each learner no matter the means.
His basic message for everyone: “Be different. Be bold. Join it.” I encourage you to read, study, and form your own opinions. Here’s hoping as we continue on this LME journey to educational excellence, we all consider the essential, excellent qualities to avoid molasses classes! 🙂
The elementary princiPALs were treated this afternoon to a special tour of the new Midlothian Heritage High School by princiPAL, Krista Tipton. This impressive learning environment of creative spaces and educational places for 21st century learners 
and leaders will open in August 2014. Filled with innovative state-of-the-art features, the new school invites students from the moment you step inside the building. Most impressive, though, is the extensive knowledge and obvious passion Mrs. Tipton conveys as she shares the planning and construction story of MHHS.
Van Am Gram 