Choose Wisely

There are so many things in life we don’t get to choose. “Stuff” just happens, and we have to deal with it. But when we do have the opportunity to choose, we should make the choices that set our students up for success.

In this iconic scene from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Donovan (Julian Glover), drinks from a golden chalice, believing it to be the Holy Grail. Unfortunately, it’s the wrong cup — and instead of eternal life, he rapidly decomposes before our eyes.

Dramatic? Absolutely. But it’s a powerful reminder that our choices have consequences.

Implication for Education

Every morning, I start my school day directing carpool traffic. It’s one of my favorite parts of the day because I get to welcome parents and students to our school.

I make it a point to wave and smile at every single car that passes. Everyone deserves a positive experience when they arrive at school. Over time, I’ve come to recognize many of the cars — and the people (and pets) inside them.

There’s Roscoe, the golden retriever, always ready for an early morning ear scratch.
The white pickup that greets me with a salute instead of a wave.
The mom who, every Friday, asks how my boys are doing.

These small moments are meaningful. They set a tone of warmth and connection that ripples into the rest of the day.

Of course, not every driver returns the wave or the smile. No matter how big my grin or how energetic my wave, some parents simply drive past without acknowledgment.

Does it sting a little? Maybe. But one unresponsive parent isn’t going to ruin my morning. Instead, it makes me wonder — why choose not to engage? And more importantly, what message does that send to the child in the back seat?

That thought led me to an even bigger question: do we have any “non-waving, non-smiling” educators in our building — and how might that choice impact student learning?

The Choice That Matters Most

Teachers don’t get to choose their students.
They don’t get to choose their curriculum.
They don’t get to choose their colleagues.

But they can choose their attitude.

Some students come from homes where joy, laughter, or warmth may be in short supply. For some children, school might be the only place they experience a genuine smile, a kind word, or a sense of belonging.

Who are we to deny them that?

There are countless things beyond our control — but smiling, laughing, waving, joking, comforting, expressing appreciation, and showing enthusiasm are choices every educator can make.

Before any child can learn, they must feel safe and loved. We can’t assume those needs are already met when they walk through our door.

So, make the choice.
Greet your students with the positivity and enthusiasm they need to thrive.
Choose wisely.

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