Every Kid Needs a Champion

Weekend Worthy

brought to you by…

Rita Pierson

Our boys are starting at a new school this year and I’ve been thinking about it quite a bit as we gear up for the first day.

I used to have all this school stuff figured out.  I used to know everything about how we would parent and what schools we would choose and what we would prioritize for our kids. Of course, that was before we actually had any kids.  Now I know nothing!  All bets are off.

Anyhow, I’ve been praying about their new teachers, new friends, new surroundings.  I watched this Ted Talk this morning and it made me pray for a teacher like Rita Pierson.  And not just for my own kids.  For everybody’s kids.   She emphasizes the importance of genuine relationships between teacher and student.  Check it out…

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          “I was on a plane recently and the flight attendant asked my name. When I told him, he said, “I knew that was you! You taught at my elementary school. You made me take my cap off in the building and told me I was handsome.” He then paused and said: “I think I kept my hat on until you saw me, just so I could get that compliment. Thank you for making me feel special.” I don’t think he realized how special he made me feel that day. There have been so many former students over the years that have made me realize the sustaining power of relationships…

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          Unless there is a connection between teacher, student and lesson, learning becomes tiresome to all involved. Veteran educator, James Comer, states that, “No significant learning occurs without a significant relationship.” Yet, the value of relationships is often downplayed or ignored completely in teacher preparation programs. Even more disturbing is the lack of useable information on the relationship building process. There is the belief among some that camaraderie between teachers and students leads to unprofessional familiarity or places the teacher in a weakened position in the classroom. Nothing could be further from the truth. Strong relationships encourage learner exploration, dialogue, confidence, and mutual respect.”

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