Equip every child, no matter their circumstance, to find their voice & their value.

As an educator, my job is to expose students to the unknown, and then watch to see what they do with it. Rather than supplying all the answers, I must recognize when to scaffold, and when to stand back. Brain growth occurs when kids push  beyond what they know; therefore, we must celebrate mistakes along the way. This attitude empowers children to take risks as they work through concepts, while developing deep understandings and a keen interest in knowing.  

How do you create an environment of engagement?  Show your students that you value their unique thinking and approach. Kids tune out when they perceive that you merely want them to repeat what you know. Teaching is far more than imparting facts and strategies. Students must feel responsible for, and capable to tackle all subject matter. Make yourself aware of how your students prefer to engage with each subject.  Ask yourself, do they need to converse with peers, journal, watch a cool video, or play games with concepts? Lessons need to be offered in multiple formats so that all students can find a way in. 

When we help our students to see that learning is not simply a means to a good grade, but the foundation for an exciting life, one full of exploration and cool problem solving, we show them how to be critical thinkers, how to articulate thoughts, how to interact with others, and how to live a full and satisfying life. When we teach concepts in context, we help our students understand the value of what we learn in the classroom, and how it applies in the real world.  A solid educational foundation creates confident thinkers.