As a first year teacher meeting my first group of students, I could not have wished for kids. This month, the students and I have been getting to know each other —not only the things we like and dislike, but also what helps us learn, what brings us joy, and what makes each of us unique. From the very beginning, my goal has been to create a classroom where students feel comfortable expressing who they are; a space where they feel safe enough to share, confident enough to be themselves, and eager enough to learn. 

As August comes to an end, I can only hope that I have begun to create that space for the students.  This first month has been about figuring out where to start, learning alongside one another, and reminding ourselves that it is okay not to have all the answers. In many ways, August has been about embracing the unknown and taking the first steps into something new—a feeling that connects naturally to the first unit of our MyPerspectives curriculum. 

The students have started Unit 1 in our MyPerspectives curriculum. Unit 1 explores the experiences, milestones, and challenges that shape us as we grow. While growing up can bring excitement and joy, it can also come with uncertainty, hardship, and moments when we question who we are and where we belong. Beginning September 1st, we will read a short story that follows a young boy exploring his cultural identity and growing to accept who he is with pride and respect. Our first month together has been about building a foundation. Now, as we move into Unit 1, we will begin exploring what it means to grow—not only as students, but as individuals discovering who we are and who we hope to become.