The Extra Degree

This Thursday is February 12 or 2/12, which means it is national 212 day. What’s that you ask?

Did you know that at 211 degrees, water is hot? (Just call me Captain Obvious!) If you remember from your science days in school, at 212 degrees, water boils. That one extra degree is the difference between hot water and boiling water. When water boils, it produces steam, and with steam, you can power a train. One small degree has a huge impact.

One of my favorite inspirational books, 212: The Extra Degree by Sam Parker, is a quick 15-minute read that shares an important message: small efforts can lead to big results. The idea is simple, giving just a little more effort in everything we do can change lives, maybe even change the world.

What Does 212 Look Like?

Being 212 at school doesn’t mean doing something huge, it’s about the little things that you do each day that matter. Here are some ways we can bring that extra degree each day:

For Students:

• An extra smile or encouraging word in the hallway.
• Catching and celebrating a few more positive student behaviors.
• Spending an extra minute connecting with a student about something beyond school.
• Using data to pinpoint exactly where a student is struggling and adjusting instruction to meet their needs (think phonics screeners).
• Trying a new teaching strategy to reach a student who isn’t responding to the usual approach.
• Reteaching a concept to a student who didn’t quite get it the first time.
• Making that extra phone call home, not for discipline, but to praise a child.

For Colleagues:

• Covering a duty or helping a teammate who needs a break.
• Taking a moment to check in with a coworker and ask, “How’s your day going?”
• Sharing a great idea, resource, or lesson that could help someone else.
• Leaving a quick note of encouragement for someone who could use a boost.
• Giving a genuine “thank you” or shoutout to someone who’s made a difference.

Small actions, repeated consistently, create a culture where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued. That one extra degree might be what makes the difference for someone who needs it most.

The 212 Challenge

I challenge each of us, myself included, to be 212 this week. Look for opportunities to add that extra degree. Let’s build a school where going above and beyond isn’t the exception but the expectation.