Care Beyond the Curriculum

The University of Georgia offered a course this semester called Leadership in High Needs Schools. I was intrigued by the course description, so I decided to enroll. Although I am only two weeks into the class, the decision to enroll is definitely going to pay off. The content and discussions amongst my peers have felt like a year of knowledge gained in this short period. What I know to be true is that education is about change— change of minds, perspectives, values, and understandings of how we support students. So, with constant change, we see a critical dialogue emerging about the role of teachers beyond academics. How do we support students when it doesn't involve an academic standard, lesson plan, or curriculum?? While educators have long been seen as the gatekeepers of knowledge, a growing body of research and anecdotal evidence proves that their influence can and should extend beyond the curriculum. This is a game-changer in how we train teachers to take on this task, especially in high-needs schools. Taking on this responsibility can have a significant impact when teaching marginalized students whose unique challenges and needs often surpass traditional learning environments. This type of teaching and learning is about empowering students to break down the walls they have created as a form of protection due to rejection, abandonment or other emotional issues.

The Expanding Role of Teachers

Traditionally, teachers have been expected to focus solely on delivering content—reading, writing, math, and science. Not only are they expected to deliver this content, but most districts have a specific time frame in which this content must be completed, so the race begins. Yet, this article is about how we care for a child beyond the curriculum to build students' confidence and self-worth. Some will read this article and say, "You are asking teachers to do more than they are capable of doing."But in today's world, where students face increasing social, emotional, and economic pressures, we must find a way to create the change they need to see. Teachers are becoming caregivers, mentors, and advocates, stepping in to support students' well-being in ways that were once left to families or other social services. For marginalized students—those from low-income families, minority backgrounds, or underrepresented groups—the need for such holistic support is even more crucial. If done correctly, this level of support could change a student's life trajectory. I have personally witnessed this and supported students with emotional or social challenges over the years. Each year, I grew in this area and acquired tools and resources that supported how I engaged with students. This is why it is pivotal for us to equip teachers to support students on this level. Social and Emotional Support for students was a massive initiative during the pandemic of 2020, but now we see those programs vanishing, and the issues remain.

For marginalized students, school can be both a place of hope and struggle. Many of these students face daily challenges such as poverty, systemic discrimination, language barriers, and limited access to resources. In such an environment, it is crucial to recognize these additional layers of difficulty. Simply teaching content without acknowledging these challenges can be detrimental to a student's success. When teachers show that they care for their students beyond academics, they build trust, a key element in creating safe spaces. Trust encourages students to open up about their difficulties, allowing teachers to offer guidance, resources, and emotional support. For students who may not have access to these outlets at home, this relationship can become a lifeline. According to Hunger in America, in 2022, approximately 49 million people, or one in six people in the U.S., relied on food assistance from charities like Feeding America. A child can not focus on learning while hungry because hunger affects brain function and energy levels. Hunger also triggers stress responses, leading to irritability and restlessness, making it harder to stay engaged in the lesson. This is why it is essential for us to have tools and resources in place to assist students facing these conditions. This is an example of Care Beyond The Curriculum.

Scenario: Tristen, who is dealing with food insecurity, may find it challenging to focus on his history lesson, but if his teacher takes the time to understand his needs, she can connect him with a food bank or lunch program. This teacher becomes a bridge between Tristen and resources he wouldn’t have found otherwise.

Why Does It Matter

When teachers invest in their students holistically, they play a pivotal role in promoting equity by addressing the diverse needs of marginalized students—whether academic, emotional, or social—teachers are helping to level the playing field. Students who feel supported in all aspects of their lives are better positioned to thrive in the classroom and beyond. We all have examples of a moment that qualified as "Care Beyond the Curriculum." How did it make you feel? The simple act of empowering your student also empowered you.?

Providing student support is not just a nice-to-have but essential for building a truly inclusive and effective educational system. I must stress that teachers cannot implement this alone; support systems would have to be in place at the federal, state, and district levels for teachers to SUCCESSFULLY carry out this task. In addition, for this to be a consistent movement, you must have policies in place that mandate this level of care. It boils down to "Done" or "Done Right".?In an era where education must adapt to the complex realities of students' lives, schools that show they care for the whole student are fostering a more equitable, compassionate, and effective learning environment for all. Let's find ways to support our teachers with thriving in the area of "Care Beyond the Curriculum."

Success Story: After middle school success, behavior support program expands to Ypsilanti elementary schools

Start Here: https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/tools-tips/resources-social-emotional-learning-sel-and-student-and-educator-mental-health

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About Franchesca Thompson: She is an extraordinary educator dedicated to shaping the minds of future teacher leaders and fostering a passion for learning. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Franchesca Thompson has become synonymous with transformative education, earning a reputation as a phenomenal educator. She brings a wealth of experience to the world of education, marked by a deep understanding of pedagogy and a flair for innovation. Over 18 years, she has consistently demonstrated a rare blend of empathy, creativity, and resilience in pursuing academic excellence.

Website: www.thrive12.com

Podcast: Everything But The Lesson Plan