Week 11 LJ/DW Idol

 

When our students arrive they are shells of the people they will become;

we see potential first.

They are awkward, lost and stumbling (literally);

we show them the way.

They don’t know names, have no “friends”, cannot look toward a future;

we create a path.

They have few social skills, don’t understand the value of self-care, nor even comprehend that they are likeable;

we show them routines, model best habits and dialogues so that they can learn by example.

They have no goals, few skills, and they feel left out.

We share ideas, guide them to find a niche and help them make connections.
 

We see abilities instead of disabilities.

 

Parents do not expect much beyond physical care for the school day.

We show kids how to self-advocate.

No one believes these students can develop rapports and work skills.

We place them in learning and job settings;
we coach and modify as needed.

These students are more than a single story.

Each has a unique set of life circumstances.

Every one of them is fascinating, if you listen and observe.

 

Our students become more than their parents expected; more than what society expects.

We challenge them.

Our students make friends and form meaningful relationships.

We create a safe space.

Our students mature and grow in ways no one imagined.

We find ways to help them adapt to the real world.

We bring out the best in them.

 

When someone new comes to our room, the struggles, fears, concerns and wishes are real and shared.

We work with their hearts to teach them compassion.

We work with their brains to teach them, “Yes, I can”.

We care for their gut on days when they come to class cold, having had no breakfast and needing reassurance.

We work with their five senses to demonstrate how learning should be for all students.

We work with their spirits to relate the message of “Yes, I am loved and worthy”.

 

Some may see them as a “hot mess” and not capable of much.

We see beauty, resilience, sincerity and determination.

For some of these kids, their days since birth have been an ugly, negative and soul-crushing battle for them and their families.

They struggle with being the “disappointment” child in their family, or they understand on some level that their life-paths are vastly different from their peers. Therefore, holding a meaningful conversation is challenging.

We help them find ways to relate well and build memories.
 

We provide love.