“Honoring Differences to Help Students Thrive”
We are all different. Some of us are short, others are great readers, some are into sports, and others where glasses. There is no right or wrong, good or bad. Our differences are what make us unique. These differences create the possibility of existing in an amazing world where we are able to share skills, gifts, and intelligences. We need differences in the world. It is what gives life color.
The classroom is no different, rather a smaller version of our everyday reality. Teachers working especially with English Language Learners can create an environment where their language learners thrive by helping them to understand that their differences are precisely what are needed in order for us all to be successful. But teachers must remember that just like any amazing lesson, this environment must be carefully planned and fostered. And the first few weeks of school are critical to the classroom culture’s success.