Stepping into Their Shoes: The Value of Student Voice

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch states: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” How can teachers follow his advice?

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch states: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” We are approaching that half-way mark on our school year. By now we’ve developed our classroom procedures and are deep into our curriculum. Could it be time to pause and try to “climb into the skin” of our students? I’ve gathered some great resources from teachers who can help us understand how to consider our students’ point-of-view.

What kids wish teachers knew by Laurie Wasserman

When teachers share their own middle school stories—including some of their blunders or embarrassing moments—it makes them more human.

Get back in touch with your inner student by Heather Walport-Gawron

If I’m really honest with myself, I have to admit that what I teach and my methods of teaching it could very easily conflict with what’s really important to a tween if I’m not aware of what really drives their train.

The power of listening to student voice by Jessica Keigan

Education is not fair for students, teachers or parents. Not enough thought is being put into it anymore

Can Students Provide Worthwhile Feedback for School Reform? by Paul Barnwell

Psst, keep reading in the comments to find this gem!

Students are significantly more self-reflective than I recall being at their age or than I give them credit for being.

Student Voices in School Reform by Esmeralda Arias

What did I think?  I thought that it was amazing that I was sitting at the table.  I was surrounded by teachers and officials from Oakland’s schools, talking about how we can make sure that our city’s teachers were the best they can possibly be.