I had a student come up to me this week and ask why they were not in my class. I had to explain that I only teach a couple of 7th grade classes and I have no say in the students that end up in my class.
This student, a girl, has a long history of getting in trouble in school. In fact, her siblings also have a history of getting in trouble on a regular basis.
I have been connecting with this students since the beginning of the year. She doesn't know this, but I know her history. I act as though I have no idea about her troubled past... Instead, I only have a little fun with her and let her know that she is valued and important. I show her that I am glad that she chooses to come say hi to me and hang near me as I stand in the hallway in the morning and give fist-bumps and high-fives to the students passing by.
"Boy, you everyone's favorite...ain't you"
"I am not sure about that. I am just happy to see all of these wonderful students and I want them all to have a great day, that's all."
It doesn't take much to help a troubled student to turn things around. Sometimes, just reminding them that they matter and not bringing up a troubled past is enough to help a student turn things around.
What I do isn't magic. I just care. I just show a troubled student that they are worth my time and look for what is great about them. I remind them daily. This can make a huge difference in the mindset of many.
Be Mindful.
Peace.
Mark Levine
#Mindfulliteracy
@LevineWrites
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