Earned Wisdom: Randy Wendt on Holistic Education, Student Impact, and Teacher Well-being

This week, I am happy to share Randy Wendt's “earned wisdom.” I’ve known Randy for my entire education career (26 years). He’s wise, a lifelong learner, and serious about his health and wellness. He is a great example of living the Why Edify way.

Every educator has a story and something to share with other teachers. Collaboration is one of the best forms of professional development. There’s a great deal to learn from his responses below.

What have I learned from a colleague:

I have learned that education isn't just teaching facts and filling empty heads. It involves treating students as spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental beings and understanding that students need to be approached holistically.

What learned wisdom do I have that other teachers can benefit from:

Many times, the things that are most remembered about you as a teacher are not the content but how you treated and respected them. Little things like always addressing them by their name in the hall or elsewhere. Also, humor and a positive attitude help a lot, as does making yourself available (giving them your time when needed). Learning should be fun. Admitting when one is wrong is a strong learning tool. Don't be hesitant to share personal interests and tidbits of your life. Again, humor—even at your own expense. My students many times would groan, but they still loved it.

Also, one must walk the talk. They learn so much by watching, not just listening. Don't judge your students; we never know what is happening in their lives. Don't punish behavior; that is for you. Give them consequences; that is for them and their growth. Don't let disruptive behavior continue because you are hesitant to ask for help or afraid it could escalate into an ugly confrontation. Teachers often came to me in the second semester saying they couldn't take their students' behavior anymore and wanted to refer them for special education. This creates greater complications.

Finally, take care of your health and create boundaries with work so you can also enjoy your personal life and obligations. Learn how to meditate, chill, exercise, and eat healthy—or whatever healthy ways work for you to reduce your stress.

What personal or professional development book would you recommend? Why?

A book by Joe Renzulli, of which I can't remember the name. In this book, he discusses his triad of learning. First, he explains that you introduce students to "sparker events," where students are exposed to topics like a speaker, film, book, or other resources.

Second, the student identifies what they would like to know about the topic which they would research.

Third, they must create a way to share what they learned with an audience. WHY? It helped me focus on students' interests and gave them a sense of ownership, especially when they had to share their findings with an audience.

Another book that I can't remember the name of explained through research how art, music, and physical education contribute to academic achievement. WHY? Because it reinforced my belief in the value of a holistic approach to education.

Music?:

"Start Me Up" and "Gimme Shelter" by the Rolling Stones and "Tupelo Honey" by Van Morrison. Too many more to list.

Added Comments:

Some people choose to become professional educators, and there are those who choose a job as an educator. If you can't choose to be a professional, either do so or choose another occupation. Be kind and caring and bring joy, whatever that is for you, to your classroom. Collaboration with others is golden, as is a positive attitude.

You can count the number of seeds in an apple, but you cannot count the number of apples in a seed. Teaching is like that.

We don't usually find out how we impact the future with the many seeds we plant. If we do, it is like receiving deferred compensation. It feels wonderful. A college professor once told me that if she had impacted the lives of a couple of students a year, she would have considered that a success. I think she underrated herself. We may never know, but I can assure you it is a lot more than two if you are doing your job.

Maybe you’re interested in sharing some of your “earned wisdom.” If so, let’s get in touch. I look forward to sharing your story with the Why Edify community.

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