Summer is approaching. Should you "Stay on target!?"

Gold Five: Just before becoming space dust

At this time of year, it is not unusual to see quite a few education bloggers write about summer vacation and the challenges facing teachers and students to remain focused.  I like this one by a member of my PLN, Justin Tarte, and I share their challenges.  But I also take a somewhat unusual perspective on the challenge of approaching summer.  I flip the challenge and look for the opportunity.

 As Gold Five says in Star Wars: Episode IV, teachers want their students to "Stay on target!" during these distracting days.  I for one remember, though, that soon after uttering those words, Gold Five was turned to space dust.

Instead, maybe taking the Luke Skywalker approach is more appropriate (at least it was in the movie).  Pay attention to the things distracting students, trust your instincts, and learn to "let go." For example, if students are staring at a beautiful day outside, take them outside.  Find the distraction and try to work it into your lesson.  You may find that the challenge of the approaching summer vacation offers a chance to inspire creativity and end the year having instilled one last attempt to develop a life-long love of learning.