How do we talk about issues that matter?

     In school it might be uncomfortable or hard to bring up difficult topics that are going on in the world. In some cases, teachers are restricted on what they can talk about which makes it difficult to have these conversations. A way that was used to talk about these issues in my school was through videos. During our history or social studies time block is when we would watch these because they related to what was going on in the world. In a video by Facing History Kevin Toro, a history teacher, used the big paper method to talk about a hard subject, the Reconstruction Era. This activity lead the students to have conversations about what was happening. Talking about issues that matter in history are just as important as talking about current day issues. Students should learn about historical issues to see how things changed or what needs to change, also just basic knowledge about events that have happened. I remember we watched a documentary on 9/11 during world history, this sparked emotions and discomfort within the class. After the documentary we had a conversation and did an activity based off of the event. For elementary aged students some videos might be too graphic but reading children's books that relate to these issues is a good way to expose them to the problems. Even dipping their toes into the pool of issues in this world, they will become more aware than they were before. As they progress through school, hopefully they will retouch on those topics and go more in-depth with them. 

Why Teach?

     Throughout my grade school years, there have been teachers who have had an impact on the way I am today. Going into a classroom and having it feel like home is a goal that I have when I become a teacher. I have had that experience and it changed the way I viewed school, and I want to do that for my future students. I have many members in my family that work in the school system, they range from teachers, administrators, and even coaches. I hope to be the teacher that leaves a footprint in each of my students lives. I hope to teach them how to be kind to everyone no matter where they come from or their background. This world can be such a cruel place that I want to help put some good back into it. School to me is not just about learning math or how to read but also learning social skills. 

    Ideally I am wanting to teach 1st-3rd grade. At this point in their lives they are still excited about learning new things. I love math and science the most but social studies, history, and english are also subjects that I would have to teach as well. Goals that I have for my classroom are to build a trusting relationship with each of my students. I want them to feel like they can come into my class and have it feel like a safe space whether they have that at home or not. Learning should be fun not stressful.