Coming to school each day can become a hopeless task for some children unless they succeed at what they do. We teachers are the sentries against that hopelessness. ~ Robert DeBruyn
Budget cuts, standardized testing, talk of accountability, time constraints, and shifting standards are enough to challenge the morale of the most steadfast, and determined, educator. Our schools are microcosms of our society, which means that many of our students face challenges that children shouldn't experience -- poverty, abuse, broken families, drugs, neighborhood violence…and the list goes on.
Adding to the level of frustration, is the fact that many of these factors, that directly impact our students (and our ability to educate), are beyond our control. So we are left with a choice: to lament the unfairness, and inequity, or be determined to make a positive impact on what is within our sphere of influence.
Each morning, an extremely diverse group of students walks through the front gates of our school. The differences are staggering, but they all share a need to feel a sense of belonging, to know their existence matters. Once they set foot on campus, we can do a lot to determine the outcome of their school experience. Be determined that every word, every interaction, and every lesson is purposeful, and positive. high expectations with overwhelming support. Be patient. Show empathy. Demonstrate humility.
As you step into your classroom, remember these wise words from Haim Ginot, because they are truth:
I’ve come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element in the classroom. It’s my daily mood that makes the weather. As a teacher, I possess a tremendous power to make a child’s life miserable or joyous. I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration. I can humiliate or humor, hurt or heal. In all situations, it is my response that decides whether crisis will be escalated or de-escalated and a child humanized or de-humanized.
You matter. Be a sentry against hopelessness.
