What lengths am I willing to go to in order to do right by every child?
What lengths am I willing to go to in order to do right by every child?
The question of how far an educator would go to do right by every child is a difficult one in which many scenarios and factors can play into. Before entering the field, I think it is crucial for one to evaluate and ponder on this question. This will help a future educator develop some boundaries, set standards and decipher whether or not their actions justify and protect their students. For example, the issue of bullying which is so common in schools across the country is an issue teachers should be prepared to take action upon. Ways to do so can include setting boundaries from the beginning of the school year, informing students that there is a zero tolerance for the cruel and harsh treatment of their peers and implementing consequences in the case of bullying. By educating not only your students but yourself about cultural boundaries and ways we can respect one another's, beliefs, opinions, etc. can be a strategic and successful way to prevent situations where a child may feel like they have been "wronged" within the classroom. Teaching our students to be respectful and open minded while we ourselves portray these characteristics as well can create a safe and caring environment where students are not as afraid to express themselves. This can create healthy habits in the long run for students all around well-being if we begin at a young age. What lengths am I willing to go to in order to do right by every child? I am willing to put in the time, effort and action in order to make my students feel safe, cared for and comfortable with being themselves.
Hi Serena, I really loved the direction in which you took this question. You brought up not only your point, but you gave a really good example that got me thinking about other situations. From reading your blog, I picked up boundaries as a key idea. I loved the idea and choice of word because it is exactly something that needs to be seen in the classroom. Having boundaries or setting up those boundaries in a classroom as a teacher is vital for every students’ success. Being able to give students certain resources for things like bullying, to bring up your example, and being able to provide students with the room to express their wants and needs in a safe place. Allowing each student to have these boundaries allows for them to give that to their fellow classmates creating that open-minded environment students need to be themselves and share their stories.
ReplyDeleteHi Serena,
ReplyDeleteI agree that the beginning is about how to set those boundaries and create safety within the classroom. I think I would also ask myself do these boundaries help protect my students. It is a hard question but truly important. It starts with self-education. I like that we talked about the humility to accept that our viewpoints will be challenged and that is ok, but the difference is the ability to learn and continue learning about other cultures. Bullying is a huge problem in schools so stating the zero-tolerance policy at the beginning of the school year will help. I like that you addressed that we are examples of being open-minded and respectful. I always think to get respect you show respect. If students learn these concepts from a young age, it will set them up to be more successful as they get older and it will be easier for them to be accepting and open minded sooner. I really like that you would create a space for students to express themselves and the way you would do that is to put in time and effort to do that. I would be curious how would you handle someone who breaks these rules? Would there be an opportunity for re-direction and education? What does zero-tolerance specifically mean? I think it could be a good opportunity to educate students why that's not ok behavior and show the solution.
Hey Serena!
ReplyDeleteI love the attitude you have towards this topic. I completely agree with your perspective. I think it is really important to set clear precedents at the beginning of the year and not tolerate behavior that borders on bullying. One theme that came up a lot in this weeks readings and videos was the importance of genuine connection and caring with all students in the classroom. This can be achieved through listening and not labeling students as "bad" just because they don't excel in every scholastic area. In getting to know their home lives and where they come from, I feel that as teachers we can better connect with and understand why they may struggle in certain areas. It can also help us to teach culturally relevant material that goes beyond just strategy.
Hi Serena!!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post and the direction you took this question was really educating. Your points and example of bullying are valid and I agree with setting boundaries and what won't be tolerated in a classroom will allow the students know ahead of time what will and won't be tolerated. Support, Respect, Care, etc are big rules to have in a classroom setting, showing and teaching these will make a big impact on these kids.