In my experience in the education system, my favorite teachers have been the ones that didn’t just teach the curriculum. The teachers that were my favorites were the ones that cared about their students as individuals. They asked about our lives outside of school, and if we were struggling, they would work with us, encourage us, and help us realize that we had more in us than we knew. Curriculum requirements were still met, of course, but due to their care for me, their subjects became more interesting and learning happened naturally. Being a teacher means to care individually about students by providing a safe environment, being or providing resources, and helping them become lifelong learners. Providing an encouraging and safe environment in the classroom is one way to care for students. This environment needs to be one where students can be themselves and positive affirmations or words of encouragement are a daily occurrence. Students need to know that they are safe and encouraged to feel free to explore their knowledge, ask questions, and cultivate their curiosity. Yet, when students explore who they are, teachers sometimes intentionally or unintentionally snuff out their curiosity due to their inability to venture into the challenging questions that students pose. …show more content…
Students face difficult challenges such as divorce, death of a family member, abuse, depression, and other challenges that threaten their safety, whether in reality or just perceived. Children need support and need to feel safe amidst challenges, so I will work toward being a source of support and directing them toward resources that are more qualified than myself. As well, informing myself about the various challenges that students face and the resources available for them will allow for better support and advocacy for students who feel unsafe in the challenges that they