I feel that my classroom is very student-centered! As I wrote in my Teaching Philosophy, the culture of every class I lead is always determined by the students I serve. In the beginning of the semester, I wrote a “This I Believe” statement about myself that included personal information about my family and my academic life. In return, students also wrote “This I Believe” statements; some took it more seriously than others, but I did learn a great deal about where the students were coming from. While I do not know everything about their lives, I have learned little bits of information and realize that any problems they have are probably more difficult than any I will face in my lifetime. I think this is an important lesson for me to learn if I plan to work in an underprivileged urban area. I have been getting better at handling information that students write about or talk to me about in brief discussions we are having about the text. I have shown a personal side to students individually that reveal that I am genuinely concerned about their success and well-being. I think that with time, only more progress will be made.

    I have been able to become more intimate with my 11th grade class because of the class’s smaller size. I have played music from student artists in the class and have opened up a few discussions to their lives. I have learned that making jokes or telling short anecdotes encourages them to listen at a much higher level. This class enjoys reading together as a group; I have listened to their opinions and included it in several lessons because they enjoy it so much. I have sat with a few students outside of the class, (in the library), and think that I have made a good connection with them—talking about issues that happen in high school and also about current events. I have also made similar attempts in the 12th grade class, but they are less willing to invite me into their lives. I have sat in on Mr. Goodman’s advisory to help a few students that also have my class. With the 12th grade class, I have realized I need to use several different types of teaching styles with the various students in my classes. This means joking with certain students, yet being stern with others. As time has progressed, the students have become much more accountable. I am very excited to have my own classes next year and to see what kind of relationships I will form over the course of a year!