Teaching Philosophy
This is a teaching philosophy the resonates with me. A teacher must truly be a champion for every single one of their students.
“Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be” ~ Rita Pierson
Rita Pierson said during a Ted Talk, “Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be” (2013). Every child needs a cheerleader and a champion, someone who believes they can accomplish their goals. Students will listen and learn from someone who makes them feel valued and someone who treats them with respect and caring. Students have wisdom and the ability to judge when the adults in their lives are acting authentically toward them. In every situation, it is up to the teacher to send the message to the student, that the student can fulfill the next achievement level in all aspects of their life from socio-emotional to academic development. As long as a person is alive, their story is not complete and we cannot, as educators, reinforce any negative or limiting influence for the students. To do so would be an injustice. Championing students into keeping a positive growth mindset can be best supported by Rita herself when she says she taught her kids to believe, “I am somebody. I was somebody when I came, I’ll be better somebody when I leave. I am powerful, and I am strong. I deserve the education that I get here. I have things to do, people to impress and places to go”(2013). Students, all students, are worthy, valuable and have un-revealed potential.
There are many ways to show students in the classroom that their teacher believes they can be successful. An all encompassing method to support students is the First Peoples Principles of learning specifically outlined by Dr. Martin Brokenleg’s Circle of Courage model (2015). It can be used to develop the students sense of belonging, mastery, independence and generosity (Brokenleg, 2015). Specifically, an important aspect of creating connection would be for a teacher to pay attention and spend the time getting to know the students as individuals. Getting to know each student allows a teacher to see the student for the unique human they are, complete with their personal strengths and stretches, and will have a better idea how to meet their needs and bolster their success. A teacher who can show calm compassion and acceptance when correcting a behaviour, reinforces the message that a student is liked and has value. Celebrating steps in the learning process helps prevent discouragement and unhelpful self talk. Regular authentic feedback will help cultivate connection and relationship. While posting classwork on the walls creates a welcoming atmosphere and sends the message that the teacher is proud of the students achievements.
Brokenleg, M. (2015, October 26). First nations principles of learning. [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PgrfCVCt_A
Pierson, R. (2013, May 3). Every kid needs a champion. [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFnMTHhKc