Can't means I Won't

I have been inspired lately by a 14 year-old boy who was born without arms.  He is determined to play football and not take anyone's pity.  If he drops his backpack in the hall and someone picks it up for him, he puts it back down on the ground and picks it up him self.  He plays kicker for his high school football team and has a dream to play for the NFL. 

When asked  if he ever gets discouraged he said that the only time he thinks about not going to be able to do anything, is when it comes to chores.  But on a more serious note, he has one quote that his mother taught him that has kept him going.  "I Can't Means, I Won't."

As teachers, we need to have this attitude with our students.  In a seemingly never ending world of negativity towards the education system, we need to do our part in building the confidence of those around us including parents, administrators, and other teachers.

As we have the attitude of saying "I Can't, Means I Won't," we will have a greater chance of impressing those around us.  We would be the ones taking education that one step farther.  Outsiders will not be looking at us as entitled, stagnant suckers of tax money.  They will see that we are able to continue learning new techniques, to reach every child, and to sacrifice our time and energy for the students.

This motto will also help us increase our standards for our students.  They will be able to see our attitude towards learning.  They will see that we are willing to take risks in order to improve our abilities.  Once this moral authority is noted, they will then work harder to improve themselves.

As we remind students that "I Can't, Means I Won't," they will not give up so easily.  Just because something is new, does not mean they will give up, but they will persevere through it.