Do your Students Shed their Identity as they enter the classroom? Blog #1

Students must feel safe and admired in order for their individuality to have authentic value in the classroom. The word admired may be a new word when discussing healthy adult-student relationships -- but it remains true. Think of a time that you were admired. now think of a time in which you were admired for doing something you normally do. For being you -- and not trying to gain any special accolades or receive any extra bonuses -- but just simply being who you are. That is what our students long for -- to be seen and honored for who they are and not for who we want them to be. Our perception of student success may be flawed to some degree because of our own biasses. Instead, our goal should be to support our students strengths, value their values, teach through their interests, grade with equity, and guide with grace. In doing this, we affirm the humanity in each student.