Thank you to the Two Writing Teachers and the Slice of Life writing community for providing this opportunity to share our "slices." Thanks to Stacey, Anna, Beth, Tara, Dana and Betsy for creating a place for us to share our work. Check out the other slices and join in the fun!
We know that teachers do more than just teach. We connect.
Yesterday I'm thankful to have had a moment to connect with a former student who is now in third grade. It's cliche, I know. But sometimes I have to stop and savor the moment especially now since I don't have my own classroom anymore. The student was having a bit of a rough day and we talked it through together over lunch. While it saddened me to see him having such a tough time, I was thankful he reminded me that our jobs are much more than test scores, data, and graphs (which is pretty much how my day was filled up prior to eating lunch with that student).
We must connect.
It was so nice to drive into work today and think about this. These connections aren't just a "bonus" or something we do because "we love our jobs." It truly becomes the foundation. Feeling connected, valued, and having a sense of belonging has to be in place before students can learn.
And isn't this true for teachers, too?
You are so right! I really needed to read this because we start testing next week and have been "practicing" this week. Connections are what really matter.
ReplyDeleteThis testing stuff is awful isn't it? Very time consuming.
DeleteThe SOLSC is all about connections too. You're going to love the upcoming month!
ReplyDeleteThanks Stacey! I'm very excited:)
DeleteAb. So. Lutely. Relationships and connections are foundational to learning! Loved this little slice connecting with a student having a difficult day. At my school we talk about being champions for students. When my principal talks with a student who is having some trouble, she'll ask, "Who is your champion here?" Keep being this little guys champion!
ReplyDelete