“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” ~ Helen Keller

Regardless of the task with which we were charged this past week at NCCAT, teamwork seemed to be the unifying theme. From working together with strangers (who quickly became friends) to build a marble “bridge”, flip a tarp from side to side with only the use of our feet, escape a fiery pit of death by walking together on “floating” white squares, or collaborate to rescue our three tennis ball “students”, we quickly saw that together we could achieve much more.

The theme spilled over as we tackled more challenges….most notably, rafting. Though I was not thrilled with the initial thoughts of possibly plunging headfirst into bitterly cold water, I must admit that the rafting experience was a high point of the week. Although I’m certain we had the best river guide (Hank, whom we renamed Ryan), during multiple times on our trip we had to work together as a team to navigate the raft to appropriate locations. Together it was possible….alone it would have been nearly impossible. I’m thankful that, through teamwork, I remained relatively dry and in the raft!

As I consider the task ahead of me, working towards the completion of my unit, I know that I will rely on my team of fellows, the wonderful ladies who have accepted the same challenge as me. Though we may not teach the same grades, we have the same goal….making teaching and learning better for teachers and students across North Carolina. I am proud to be one of the “Fabulous Five” working to create fabulous ELA units for NC teachers!

Most notably, I am proud of the 2013-2014 Kenan Fellows “team” that has been created and charged with making incredible things happen across the state. Together we can achieve more….and together we will achieve greatness! Go team!