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Meeting Pattern

Online/Google Classroom

Description

This book study invites educators to explore I Wish My Teacher Knew by Kyle Schwartz, a powerful collection of student voices and reflections that shed light on the challenges, hopes, and experiences our students carry with them into the classroom. Through honest stories and practical strategies, the book encourages teachers to build stronger connections, foster empathy, and create a classroom community where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Goal/Purpose: The purpose of this book study is to deepen educators’ understanding of students’ social-emotional needs and diverse backgrounds, while equipping them with strategies to cultivate stronger relationships and inclusive classroom environments. By engaging with the text and collaborating with colleagues, participants will reflect on their own teaching practices, gain insights into the importance of student voice, and develop actionable steps to strengthen trust, equity, and belonging in their classrooms.

Syllabus, Objectives, and Outcomes

objectives:

You will:

• Understand Student Perspectives – Recognize the importance of student voice in shaping a supportive and responsive classroom environment.
• Reflect on Practice – Examine personal teaching practices and identify ways to build stronger, more authentic relationships with students.
• Promote Equity and Inclusion – Explore strategies for creating inclusive classrooms that honor the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and needs of all learners.
• Strengthen Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) – Apply insights from the book to support students’ social-emotional development and overall well-being.
• Foster Empathy and Connection – Develop skills to better empathize with students’ lived experiences and use that understanding to guide instruction and interactions.
• Implement Practical Strategies – Identify and integrate actionable ideas from the book to enhance classroom community, trust, and engagement.
• Collaborate Professionally – Engage in meaningful discussion with colleagues to share perspectives, strategies, and challenges, supporting collective growth as educators.

Required Text:

I Wish My Teacher Knew: How One Question Can Change Everything for Our Kids, Author: Kyle Schwartz 2016 Publisher: Balance ISBN-10: ‎0738219142. Book can be ordered from Amazon.

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