Each day we set our sights on creating a community where inspiration can happen.

Each morning, when students walk through our doors, we greet them with a fist bump and a smile, hoping that we can inspire them today.

What if we flipped that and began to ask students who they will inspire today? Or better yet, say I can’t wait to be inspired by you today.

Think about that for a moment. An adult asking a child how they will inspire or impact someone today. I couldn’t imagine having my elementary teachers ask me that. I wonder where I would be if that was a common saying in my learning?

When I think about it, I’ve never been asked that, even as an adult. We must change that dynamic and not try to inspire our students, but instill in them the confidence to inspire others.

My students will leave our classroom in 17 days. I have 17 days to inspire them, but more importantly, I have 17 days to be inspired by them. A slight shift in words, but a huge shift in thinking. The collaborative culture that those words brings can be monumental.

Try to ask that question tomorrow and I am sure that some students will look at you like your crazy. You know what, I’m going to ask that question tomorrow. I’ll let you know what the answers are through the #inspirewho on twitter.

I can’t wait to be inspired by my students tomorrow. I follow their creations and see all the amazing things they do and I am inspired, but I’ve never said that to my students.

I don’t want to just inspire them, I want to be inspired by them. Inspired to try new things, to ask better questions, and to engage in their learning. It’s an exciting last few weeks of school and I have the opportunity to be inspired for 17 days! I can’t wait!!