September 5, 2024

Dear Educator,

It is back-to-school season and we are all getting to know each other. As we make first impressions, our actions and what we prioritize says a lot to students (and their families) about what matters most.

In a recent Gallup poll, middle and high school students were asked what makes a great teacher. 73% of students rated “they cared about you as a person” at the top of the list. In other words, taking time to get to know kids for who they are and understanding their goals is critical to engaging them and growing them as learners.

There are many educators who know this and make a tremendous effort to put learners at the center. Last week, I had a great experience at back-to-school night and I am excited to highlight a Bright Spot that involves my own kids!

With Gratitude,

P.S. The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast is back! I kicked off Season 5 with Dr. Rebekah Kim, who discusses her journey as an educator and leader committed to advancing equitable practices in education. Tune in here!

Back-to-School Night Done Right

We were welcomed to Back to School Night in the quad by Principal Dr. Matt Lawson. As I walked from class to class, I saw the administrative staff connecting with families, and I was also greeted at the door and welcomed in by each teacher.

Although each teacher had information to share, they started by asking about who my child was and making a genuine connection. Each teacher had a class list with pictures printed out to make sure they could make the connection. Knowing and using kids' names is a non-negotiable for me as an educator, and I loved seeing this foundational practice school-wide. It was clear that knowing kids' names and making a genuine connection was a priority.

As my colleague, Kelly Williams, highlighted in a recent blog: “Embracing the “go slow to go fast” approach is key. By focusing on building a strong community early on, we set the stage for accelerated student achievement and a more dynamic, collaborative learning environment. Prioritizing relationships and community creation from the start lays the foundation for a positive, productive learning experience that will not only benefit students now but also support their growth for years to come.”

I am thrilled that my kids have great educators who make a genuine effort to connect, and I am grateful that I feel welcomed and included at a high school campus!

Do you have a story you'd like to share about how students and families feel included at your school or district? Share your story here.

Resources to advance your learner-centered practice

🎤 Aligning Your District’s Initiatives: How to Achieve Coherence and Impact.
"I like to bring that personal 'mama bear' advocacy into the way I lead in education, advocating for high-quality learning experiences for all students." Listen to Episode 31 here.

📖 Prioritizing Educator Belonging for Successful Learner-Centered Instruction. "Within the education landscape, it is widely agreed upon that supporting student growth and well-being is at the heart of learner-centered instruction, yet we often overlook the well-being of our educators, those charged with fostering student well-being." Learn more.

🖥️ WEBINAR: Competency-Based Assessment: From Measuring Seat Time to Demonstrating Learning. "In this session, educators will explore innovative ways to assess student learning through real-world demonstrations and exhibitions. Discover best practices, tools, and strategies to implement these assessments in your classroom, ensuring students not only learn but thrive." Register here.