Persistance and Grit

I'm glad this topic of persistence and grit in teaching has come up. It reassures me, and I assume others, that there is no one right answer for any specific situation. In my classroom, I feel like I am trying new things out on a daily basis in order to reach my goals for myself and my students. Reflecting on these daily practices and processes continues to be an inspiring part of this "gritty" process. I like brainstorming new techniques and strategies and how, where and when I am going to try them out. 

One connection I was making while reading the article on persistence, was related to a book I am currently reading through my school called "What Great Teachers Do Differently." There are some commonalities between the authors perspective on what a great teacher in relation to grit and persistence. The author, Todd Whilaker, makes a statement that great teachers work through people, not programs. He views teaching as a profession of people and an appreciation for helping people reach their potential, whatever obstacles may be present. Great teachers a great in any situation. They mean what they say and they get things and they are successful in an situation. That viewpoint of never giving up and enduring under any circumstances, with the students best interest in mind a very powerful concept. 

I feel that in certain cases, we are able to teach students how to have "grit" and persevere to meet their  potential. I agree that many students come from households, in which their parents are supportive and provide guidance to promote the growth of grit in their children. This is a jump start for them.I also agree that there are children, who severely lack support and guidance. This deters their potential for "grit" because they haven't been exposed to its potential. As teachers, we need to promote the growth of perseverance and persistence, and support the students' daily gritty behaviors to ensure that our students are building strong habits and behaviors. Our hope is that this will allow them to drive through stressors and road bumps to achieve their potential and goals throughout their lives.