Teaching

A few weeks ago, a parent came to complain about the homework I send.  In the conversation, she also said a couple of times that I have sucked all the joy of learning from her daughter.  Her daughter used to come home excited about school and about learning but no longer.  I nearly started to cry.   I listened, answered questions, and gave a few suggestions.  But this is a delightful student who is very capable, and the mother's comments hurt me pretty deeply. 

But I have tried to remember that not all parents or others feel that way.

In a recent meeting with my principal and the parents of one of my students, the parents told me that their son loves school and always wants to tell them about what he's learning and how much he likes my class.  They said they have appreciated my structure and routines and care for their son. 

Feedback from my assistant principal given today in my end of year evaluation:

Jennifer, as we come to the end of this academic year, it is a privilege to recognize the profound impact you have had on your students. Your classroom is much more than a space for instruction; it is a safe and welcoming place where children feel valued, capable, and seen. The deep personal connection you build with each student is the foundation upon which their success is built, proving that your care for their well-being is just as intentional as your focus on their academic achievement. Your ability to truly engage students in the joy of learning has turned your classroom into an environment where curiosity thrives and every child is encouraged to reach their full potential.

The academic progress and student achievement this year are a direct result of your lesson preparation and a relentless focus on successful outcomes and your dedication and effort to your continued education. By allowing your instructional goals to guide every classroom interaction, you ensure that no student is left behind and that every milestone is celebrated. It is often said that educators perform miracles every day, but the growth seen in your students this year has been truly extraordinary. These "miracles’, both big and small, have not gone unnoticed by your peers or the families you serve. Thank you for your unwavering student focus and for being such a vital and important part of the Ensign Elementary team.

Jason

I had a student for only 4 1/2 months this year, but before he moved, his mom sent me this message:

After a really difficult experience at his previous school, it has meant so much to see him truly happy again. He felt like he belonged in your class — he made friends, felt supported, and most importantly, felt safe and cared for. That kind of environment is so special, and it made a bigger difference for him than I can fully put into words.

I’m also incredibly grateful for the way you’ve always taken the time to answer my questions and help me better understand his education. It’s clear how much you genuinely care about your students, and I want you to know that has not gone unnoticed.

Thank you for creating such a positive, inclusive space for Carter. We will always appreciate the impact you’ve had on him even if it was short. Again, thank you so much.

Jessica

I am not  a perfect teacher.  I make mistakes.  I get frustrated sometimes.  Not every single child learns as much as I would hope.  This year, I feel like despite lots of effort, I have completely failed a student at least when it comes to academics.  He has experienced so much trauma and he is one of the hardest kids I have ever taught.  And he refuses to do almost any work or anything I ask.  But he knows I care about him, and his behaviors aren't quite as extreme as they used to be.  I have prayed for this child and worried over this child as much as any child I have ever taught.  But I haven't taught him much.  I am worried for his future.