We often hear kids, and even adults, talk about that one teacher. You know, the one who really connected with them. Who “made learning fun” and whose class they looked forward to every day. Who believed in them. We’ve all heard this, and maybe as you read this, you are thinking of a teacher you have had. Or maybe, just maybe, you are lucky enough that you are thinking of more than one person. You’re thinking of your 4th-grade teacher who made you laugh so hard your belly hurt. You’re thinking of your 7th-grade ELA teacher who helped you when you were experiencing the cruelty that only middle school girls can exhibit. You’re thinking of your calculus teacher who unlocked the beauty of math for you. Or you hate math and cannot believe someone typed that. Regardless of who is coming to mind, you know the power of a great teacher.
My question to you is, why should a person only have one? Throughout K-12 education, they get only one teacher who makes that kind of an impact? No. That cannot be our standard. When people look back on their years in grade school, they should not just talk about “that” teacher. Let us do what we can to ensure our students talk about “those” teachers instead.
If you are a teacher preparing to start the 23-24 school year – or perhaps you have already started – think about what you can do to show up for each and every student. It is not about a grand gesture. It is knowing their name (and how to pronounce it), things they are interested in, and finding commonalities. Let them see you make mistakes, and we are all humans! Yes, they are there to learn content, but they are also learning how to be a citizen of the world, and you get to help with that. Be not one, but one of many adults they can look to and think about years later, knowing that someone cared about and believed in them.
If you are still doubting the power of relationships in schools, take a few minutes to watch or listen to this TED talk. It is a powerful statement for all of us, even those teachers who are already “that” teacher.
Furthermore, consider this list of simple ways to connect with students:
- Learn each student’s name, and call each student by name at least three times a week
- Look for something to comment on (cute water bottle sticker, sports team shirt, etc.)
- Learn their interests
- Share stories about yourself
- Don’t ever think of them as a lost cause
Looking for more support this school year? Check out our Classroom Practice page to see how we can collaborate to improve outcomes for all.
