Something Every Teacher Needs

Listening to Erin Gruwell (of “Freedom Writers” fame) this morning at #NCTCA2014, it was inspirational to hear her share stories of her students, and how some of them came from some very horrific situations and went on to be successful.
Was it a specific teaching method that she used to help change their lives? Nope.
Was it some sort of new technology that inspired them to do some great? Nope.
What I saw and felt in her talk this morning was one word.
Belief.
I have always believed the importance of relationships and how they are foundation of a great school, classroom, or organization, but having “belief” in every student you interact with, no matter how hard it is and where they have come from, can make all of the difference.
If we don’t believe kids can change the world or even just make it a better place to live, they are already starting in deficit.
Embodying that one little word, can make a huge difference for a kid who needs you more than you will ever know.