At Hunt Elementary School in Jackson, Michigan, Principal Raczkowski-Shannon says to show our commitment to students, “We let students and their parents know that we do care about their children. We have a flyer posted outside of every classroom or on the door that is signed by each teacher that says, ‘Dear Students, I believe in you. I trust in you. You are listened to. You are cared for. You are important. You will succeed. Love, [and the teacher signs it]. This translates to the parents.” Mrs. Yoder’s poster is pictured at left.
When teachers and school leaders care about and value their students, they make a difference in the lives of students and their parents. Supported by decades of research, more than any factor, a teacher is the greatest influencer of student achievement. It begins by communicating that we care about and are committed to our students.
For Action: What one thing will you do on Day 1 and each day to let your students know that you care about and are committed to their success?
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