This week we had an amazing guest, Chantelle, come in to speak about inclusion. She shared her personal stories and her work. It was very helpful to hear her speak and have discussions with her about our own ideas. In breakout rooms, we discussed how we could support students with different needs and some obstacles we may face as educators. It’s important to think and reflect on this now before you’re in the situation with little knowledge of what to do or how to help. It is also important to learn about this now for your future students who will be relying on you for an equal education.

One thing that really stuck with me as I left this lecture was the importance of student individuality. This can mean a lot of different things in the classroom. It can mean getting to know them and their family, their interests, emotional needs, learning style, and more. Getting to know your students is important in creating a true connection and a safe environment for them. Learning their interests can help you know how to keep them engaged on cater your lessons to your student’s likes. Getting to know them also allows you to learn their needs and to fulfill them so they are able to thrive in your class. All these things make such a difference and not providing these can set your students back or make them feel unwelcomed in the classroom.

As a teacher, you will always have to be on your toes and ready for what is thrown at you. The outcomes for being prepared are amazing and even the small things can make a big difference to one student. Being prepared could include having multiple resources, backup lessons, and just offering your support or having mental check-ins frequently.