Not all Heroes wear Capes

Every teacher is a super hero and each one of them has their own unique set of super powers. What are yours?

Adaptability

“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.” - Charles Darwin

"The measure of intelligence is the ability to change." - Albert Einstein

I had a cheerleading coach in college who inspired a lot of the person I am today, and one of the things she championed in her coaching style was "adaptability." We ere often thrown into new positions or situations in formations and routines, so it was important for us as athletes to be able to adapt our skills to the needs of the moment. This same ability to adapt in the moment is an essential skill for all teachers. We make hundreds of in the moment decisions throughout the day. Adjusting lesson plans due to a lack of attendance, or changing the way you did an activity with the first class when you do it with the second class. We are constantly adapting to meet the needs of our students, and as a history teacher there is also a need to be ready to implode a lesson plan and focus on current events.

Confidence

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

I believe in being the most authentic version of myself at all times, and this is a belief that I work to instill in my students. It is important to me that I create a classroom environment in which students feel comfortable being the most authentic version of themselves. I have never had a problem with confidence, but many students struggle with finding their voice and the confidence that comes with having a true sense of who they are as people. As a teacher I will always strive to create opportunities for students to succeed and build up their confidence. One of the ways I will do this is by working to foster a greater sense of community among students. Additionally, many of the projects I have designed have a self reflection piece to them, and provide students a chance to explore their identity and share that with their peers.