Creating Awesome Experiences for Your Learners in the Classroom

For nearly four years, I taught at the collegiate-level and knew that it was time for me to return to K-12. In my departure from the university, I knew that I wanted to directly impact youths from my community. The Ivory Tower, as many call it, can be an isolated place that is far-removed from the daily realities of those in classrooms and school districts. As one professor told me, “Research professors and professors of practice hold very different perspectives because of their experiences with the education system.” In being removed from the K-12 setting for these last four years I have realized how much I am missing in fully understanding the experiences of youths and educators on the ground. However, I would argue that we need researchers and practitioners in our quest of creating equitable education systems. 

In working with my high school students this summer, I am reminded of these essential tips for navigating the classroom :

1. Your students need an environment that is conducive for them to grow and be their full selves. 
2. Schools can be oppressive spaces for students, thus they’ll disengage when they aren’t affirmed and humanized. 
3. Your students have untold stories that they’re dying to tell- if you’re willing to listen. 
4. Students aren’t looking for saviors. 
5. Your students want to know that you’re human just like them. 
6. You’ll definitely figure out if a lesson is hit or miss. 
7. Listening to students’ feedback is a useful tool in constructing or re-iterating lesson plans. 
8. Connect content to the lives of your students.
9. You do not need to be an expert in everything. If you don’t know, just admit that you don’t know. 

My classroom is a co-created space that is equitable and inclusive. When students understand that they are welcomed and encouraged to bring their authentic selves, the possibilities are endless. The best lessons are those that encourage students to take the reins. Yes, it can definitely be hard to let go of the control that may make you feel secure and “properly prepared,” but the classroom shouldn’t be a space where you’re doing all of the talking. As a student told me at the beginning of the summer, “I hated my English class last year because the teacher talked too much.” I totally understood where the student was coming from. I’m sure we’ve all been there. We see talking at lengths as being a sign of our expertise in the content area. However, students see things differently. They want to be engaged and a part of the learning process. 

So, what do I advise? Let go of control. Students want to create knowledge with their peers. Students want to connect curriculum with their lives. They shouldn’t be mutually exclusive. The most engaging lessons are those that require students to use their prior knowledge and to build on it. 

In being in the classroom this summer, I’ve realized how privileged I am. Students and their families are entrusting you to provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills to help them thrive in the world. Not only that, but schools should be places in which students can find community and connection with peers and trusted adults. While we can’t solve the problems of the world, we can definitely start in our classrooms.