What Advice Did the Community Give the Student Teachers?
Kent Hudson
Cedric Logan
Abel Macias
Jen Norum
Jeffrey Swartwood
“Honesty is the best policy.”
The most consistent piece of advice that we received from the community was to be honest and straightforward with students. Along with this was the idea that teachers need to get to know their students, and be sensitive to the various cultural backgrounds.
“Motivation is the key to success.”
A common theme in our interviews was the need to provide a curriculum which motivates and inspires students to succeed. Encouragement was given to interact with students, and to teach them a love of learning.
“Keep my child safe!”
Several parents expressed the need for a drug and violence free environment. One suggestion was to hold drug awareness workshops, and to even include speakers from the community to speak.
“Teacher as role model and leader.”
As a role model a teacher needs to be encouraging and supportive of the students. It is not just what a teacher says, but also what they do both in and out of the classroom. Another common suggestion for future teachers was to maintain their position as a leader in the classroom. It is important to respect the students and understand where they are coming from, but the teacher must always maintain a sense of order.
In closing our group, felt the advice from the community was engaging and concurred with our own expectations for ourselves. The goals we were given were all challenging but obtainable.
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