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In what ways do you make your students feel valued?
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I make my students feel valued and appreciated in their journey with me by acknowledging their uniqueness, offering support, sharing biblical wisdom, and fostering a growth mindset. Below are some of the things I have been doing since working at my current school:
I tell my students that everyone is created in the image of God and that each person is unique. I encourage them to come to me with any questions or concerns about their learning in my course. I use words from the Bible to encourage and uplift them on a daily basis. I remind them that each person is loved by God and has been given different talents to be grateful for and use wisely. I also encourage classmates to share their perspectives and personal experiences with each other. Sometimes, this approach proves to be more convincing. My school is a college-prep, Christ-centered secondary school, where students face tremendous academic challenges and pressures in their lives. Therefore, it is crucial that we consistently remind them to view challenges and struggles as opportunities for God to shape and develop them. -
I make my students feel valued by taking note of moments where it is evident that they need me more than what I teach. I share with them some age appropriate experiences I have and how I navigated them. I also make it a point to attend sporting events, fine art experiences and other extra curricular activities that my students participate in.
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I think the biggest thing that makes a student (or person, in general) feel valued is to be SEEN. Not seen through how they are on social media, not seen by how they try to impress people, but SEEN by how GOD sees them. In order to do that, we have to have attention to detail. What makes a person happy? What makes a student succeed? If I show that I care by actually paying attention to the details of a student’s day (knowing their favorite subject, snacks, drinks, sports teams, etc.) then you begin to form a relationship. A relationship that will allow an educator and the student have success within the classroom and content area, but also mentorship and guidance.
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I regularly seek their contributions in course and articulate that what they contribute is valuable and appreciated. I try to create a space where they are free to question, express doubt, and even challenge assertions I make in course. Most importantly, I try to guide them to finding their ultimate value in God and His Word.
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I take the time to get to know my students, learning their likes and dislikes, in addition to how they learn best in the classroom. When they come to me whether it’s with a concern or just to say “hello”, I always stop what I’m doing and give them my full attention. I ask follow-up questions about events that have taken place in their lives and do what I can to attend events that matter. Especially when they go out of their way to invite me. I also pray with them and for them.
