“If you want their mind, you have to have their hearts,”
Dr. Stacy Meyer, California Baptist University
As I greeted students that entered the classes, I noticed instantly the differences in each student. Some were shy and quiet, while others were engaging and outgoing. We had students that loved being at school and others just getting through the day. I began to realize just how important it was to be interested and invested in getting to know each of their unique characteristics. From school to school, the environment and the students would change but one thing stayed the same and that was the students want to be cared for, valued, and listened to. Our classes and teachers brought just the right amount of uniqueness to match the students we served. For example, Coach Kevin loves basketball and within seconds makes connections with students in the class who are also interested in this sport. Ericka, another coach, loves anime and this is a huge score with gen z teens. Bringing our own interest and passions to the class only added to the classroom environment and created a sense of warmth and positivity.
When you go into your classrooms, consider some of the unique qualities your students bring. Are they all outgoing, are they interested in sports, or do they lean more towards the arts? Understanding your students brings you closer to them in ways you could not imagine.
Let me leave you with this last example, all year there was a student who was always quiet, stayed at the back of the classroom, and kept her mask on. It seemed to me she did not want to be seen. On the very last class, she brought an American Sign Language (ASL) book. I approached and shared that I learned ASL in undergrad and it is something I love. While she never removed her mask, she engaged with me more than she ever did in the entire year.
Remember if you want their mind, you have to get to their hearts.
Sianna Gideon
Student Coach, M.Ed. Candidate
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