Responding to Students Needs

Teachers have a difficult task of listening and responding to students needs.  Though this sounds simple it can often be difficult.  There are many different ways that a teacher can respond to their student when they express or demonstrate a need.  Many of the students that come into the classroom are seeking help to cope with their life.  It’s our responsibility to facilitate a warm and inviting atmosphere allowing for all students to share their feelings and desires in a safe place.  When teachers show their students that they are invested in not only the students ability to learn but also their future they allow for and develop relationships that demonstrate true concern. 

We can assist our students by responding to them in one of five different ways.

1)   Invitation

·      Showing that you want to know who they are

·      Showing them they are important and unique

·      Demonstrating that you care by listening to them

·      Expressing they are needed

2)   Opportunity

·      Teach them they have important things to do each day

·      The activities are important to complete

·      The activities present new possibilities

·      You are a part of the class and are needed

3)   Investment

·      I have worked hard to make school a place for you

·      I enjoy making school special for you

·      I love helping you learn and grow

·      I will help you succeed

·      We are partners in your education

·      You will not fail with me by your side

4)   Persistence

·      You have grown and will continue to grow

·      If at first you don’t succeed try, try again

·      I will help you “try, try again”

·      No excuses, just support

·      Learning isn’t a race its an experience

5)   Reflection

·      I am listening to you systematically

·      I will use what I learn about you to help you succeed

·      I reflect on how you see things so I can make it better for you

·      Its more about you and less about me

In the end its more important that we establish a connection with the student so we can better serve them where they are, and help them to get to where they should be.