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In what ways do you make your students feel valued?
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I deliberately set aside the time to just sit and talk with them- to discuss whatever topics they have on their hearts/ minds and that they want to discuss. I make sure that they feel “heard”.
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I help my students feel valued by encouraging them and loving them for who they are. I pray for them, and ask God to see them through their eyes. My job is not to limit them but untap their potential.
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The biggest way I try to make my students feel valued is by showing interest in what they are interested in. Going to sporting events and fine arts performances makes a big impression. I also try to give times for students to discuss what they are thinking and believe and listen so they have an opportunity to be heard as we discuss topics.
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I try to get to know my students and their families outside of school. I go to dance recitals, birthday parties, baseball games…just so my kids know I am invested in them. I also keep a prayer journal with my students. Every month we go through this journal and see how God answered our prayer requests. I also tell them I love them, but that they have a God who loves them even more than me.
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Being able to pray with our students is an important way to communicate their value. Giving them opportunities to share their ideas about “the big questions” of life is another way to communicate their value, as we listen to their insights.