How often do you fully listen to and understand the experiences of your students? I know many of us have the best intentions, but sometimes we are way off the mark in providing what our students really need to be able to excel.

Aaron and I met in 2006. He was in his first year of high school. I was in my first year of teaching. The school we were at was in its first year of existence.

We spent several years together in a school that navigated a LOT of challenges. Like, so many we couldn’t possibly cover it all in our hour and a half conversation. I think I taught Aaron for 3 of them.

He is incredibly honest and vulnerable in sharing his stories and experience, and it’s very clear that the school was not set up to support him in the ways that he and his classmates needed.

I think every educator has something to learn from this conversation. Something to reflect on and consider when you show up for your students.

One of my biggest wishes in education is that we listen to, respect, and consider student voices and experiences much, much more.

This conversation is just one way for me to show you why that’s so important. ❤️