She's probably in your class.
Do you recognize this girl? You know the girl that is constantly chatting with her friends and smiles all the time? She is also the one that struggles to learn concepts the first time around and she needs your constant support. Do you know why she struggles? Did you know that she has been enrolled in two other elementary schools and this is the third? Did you know that each time she has moved it has been because her parents have struggled to meet the rental payments on their home? Did you know that her previous teachers rolled their eyes at her every time she struggled and asked for help? Did you know that her teachers have told her she would never be a high achieving student? It was either sink or swim and most of the time she sank.She's probably in your class and you have the chance to be the number one difference maker in her life. Show her that you care and guide her towards success. Help her find that "Just Right" way of learning. Let her choose her learning outcomes through personalized menus that allow for multiple ways of learning. Let her express her comprehension through uncommon learning activities. Most of all....be her BIGGEST CHEERLEADER! If you do that she will remember you always.
That girl was me. Dr.Joyce Slone was my biggest cheerleader but I wasn't blessed with her presence until 12th grade. She treated me with respect and dignity. She was more than just a teacher, she was an influencer. She not only influenced me but made me believe I could accomplish whatever I wanted in life. She taught me to never give up on my dreams. It's because of Dr. Joyce Slone that I have a burning passion to learn and teach others. I will continue to honor her every day not only in my classroom but in life. I want my students to feel exactly the way Dr. Joyce Slone made me feel....LOVED!
