A pair of news stories this week reported that students were being silenced and punished when they attempted to speak up for others. This is disappointing.
This week reminded us of two pioneering women in aviation. The nation mourned the death of Sally Ride, the first American woman in space. At the same time, many of us celebrated the 115th birthday of Amelia Earhart.
I have always considered myself a thoughtful and considerate teacher. I try to understand where my students are coming from. I want my students to feel safe and respected. Last year, one of my students taught me how even the best intentions can miss the mark.
As a high school sophomore, I loved debate. My coach was a quirky, intelligent man whom I greatly admired. I learned a lot from him. It bothered me, however, that he didn’t seem to respect me because of my choices.
I was apprehensive about beginning a unit on the concept of home in my high school art class. I’m still getting to know my students and was wary of delving in to such a personal topic without knowing what it might bring up for them. I want a curriculum centered on students’ lives, but also like to have an idea of what to expect.
This toolkit accompanies the article “Uncommon Ground,” and provides a classroom activity to celebrate diversity and build common ground by making personal story quilts.
Unfortunately, encounters like the one in this issue’s “Story Corner” happen often; in a split second, we must decide whether to confront a hateful or biased statement and what to say. Below is a list of authentic