After being asked to do a timed IQ test yesterday, where I literally stared at the screen and couldn't answer any of the language based questions, I was reminded of this recent post that I shared on facebook. At the time I was thinking more in relation to my students; how each student has gifts and strengths to share with society. I strongly believe that it is our job as teachers to help them realize those gifts. I see these gifts in all of our students from those who are 'gifted' readers, singers, mathematicians, to those who may struggle with behaviour, or even those with severe physical and mental disabilities. I learn from my students every day as they really are my teachers: teaching me patience, love, humility, acceptance, what it means to be resilient, what it means to be kind, and on, and on.
However, after yesterday's test I was reminded personally of how important it is to consider intelligence more broadly. In high school, after doing a personality profile and IQ test, it was recommended that I pursue a career as a Drivers Ed Instructor or Customs Official - or as I read it - don't bother trying to go to University. Luckily (what the test may or may not have picked up on) if someone tells me what I can't do, come hell or high water, I do what it takes to prove them wrong.
My sincere hope is that all of our students develop the self confidence, resiliency and 'stick-with-it-ness' to know that their potential is much greater than one, or even a thousand tests could ever measure. Maybe this is the purpose of school?
