In the Classroom

Clammy palms. Nervousness. Increased heart rate. Prayer. As a former player and head basketball coach, this was my normal experience prior to games, especially the big ones. Most players and coaches have rituals and similar feelings before stepping on the court or field before a game or match. The anticipation and repetition of rituals for over 20 years in my life are unmatched except by my arrival to my classroom on the first day of school. The smell of a clean building, shiny hallway floors, stacks of paper, and opening a new Expo marker provide a feeling of potential and dreams of making things better and anew for all students. For…