I often wonder who reads the CEO's Message in electronic newsletters like the Advocate.
Are people really interested in the message? In most cases, I think the answer is probably not really.
Whilst this can dent the ego of the writer, I believe every negative can be turned into a positive.
So thinking outside the box, I want to share with you something that I learnt last week.
I had the opportunity to attend Mark Collard's Keynote address at the recent ACHPER SA Health & PE Conference. The theme of his presentation was based around how, with the right skills and strategies, teachers can deliver fun programs that engage and motivate students to participate and get along.
He concluded with one simple PowerPoint slide that said CONNECTION BEFORE CONTENT.
Made me think - I am sure it made all attendees think. Make the connection first and children (and adults) will listen and learn. Well, that was my take away. For those in the teaching profession, I am sure it is a statement that resonates.
It was a really valuable message and made me seek out a relevant quote from Educator, Rita F. Pierson, to finish this month's 'shorter' CEO's message:
Every Child deserves a Champion
An Adult who will never give up on them,
Who understands the power of connection and
insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.
Who are you going to champion this month?
And if you are interested in this topic, have a look at the
TED talk by Rita Pierson
on the power of connection. In next month's Advocate, I will be looking at ACHPER's new Advocacy & Lobbying Strategy.
John Stokes
ACHPER CEO
