I went into teaching to make a difference and change the world. I think that's what all teachers think they will be able to do as they begin their teaching career. Somewhere along the way I began to realize that I will never be able to change the world, but what I can do, is change MY world and the world of the students that I teach each year. If I can make a difference in the lives of the students that come through my door, then I am fulfilling the dreams that I set out to when I entered college.
Last year I came across a beautifully written blog about the power of asking students about their friends. If you'd like to read the article, please go here: http://momastery.com/blog/2014/01/30/share-schools/. This article moved me to look at my own classroom.
So every Friday, starting during second semester, our class takes time to write down four friends we "wish" we could sit by and one student that has been a "Star Student" for the week (someone who has been a good role model and has been brave and kind all week). All of the students know this information is confidential and they are not allowed to discuss it with their peers afterward.. I then create a seating chart for the next week that allows them to sit by one of the friends they have chosen.
What has amazed me most, is not the choices that they make each week, but the things that I may have missed along the way. The friendships that have formed throughout the week, the friendships that have changed, and the empathy and compassion they have for their classmates. I take the time to look at my own teaching and the conversations I have had with students to determine what I can do and say differently to help a student that may have not been chosen by as many peers one week. It is amazing the difference a few kind words and actions can make. Friendships in Kindergarten are ever-changing and growing. Kindergartners are very forgiving, loving, and empathetic on their own, but I want to help make a difference that sets them up for success as they grow up and as peers and feelings change.
Here are the students that were chosen as Star Students for this week by their peers: