The Best Way to Motivate Students

My family moved when I was in high school. It wasn't an across town type of move. No, it was to a whole different province! After spending my whole (albeit short) life in one place, going to one school with the same students I saw at church, I suddenly found myself in a brand new place with few recognizable faces. It was rough.

At a larger school than I was used to, I was a little lost! I was surrounded by students who had known each other for a long time and I was the only one that really didn't "belong". Or at least that's how I felt.

It was a teacher that made the difference.

My biology teacher was not known for his friendly demeanor during class (he was strict!). Rather he had a reputation of being tough and for having difficult tests. To be honest, I was scared this would be my first failing grade ever!

One day, I decided to stay in his class a little longer (it was lunch) to finish up something I was working on. He wandered over to where I was and stopped. I was sure he was going to tell me to leave or get me in trouble for something. Instead he started to ask me some questions.

Where did I move from?

Did I have any siblings?

How did I like it here so far?

What was my favorite thing to learn about?

It was a simple conversation. It didn't take much time at all. And very likely, he did not remember it for very long. Yet here I am, decades later, and I can still remember that day.

Suddenly, I felt like someone SAW me.

As a result of that simple connection, I worked hard for that teacher. In fact, I learned to love Biology because of him...and eventually even pursued a major in it!

He made a difference.

Many people have done studies to find out who makes the difference in a school. What makes a school great or not so great? Who makes the difference in the lives of students? The answer always shows that the most important person in a school is NOT the principal.

It is always, always, always the teachers!

Keep being the type of teacher that:

gives hope,

makes connections,

helps students feel seen and valued.

It's the best way to motivate students to learn.

Have a great week.

Kim