The beginning of a new school-year always starts with a lot of positive energy and high hopes. I see this group of 4th graders as a more diverse blend of personalities and academic abilities than classes in the past. I look forward to the challenges and victories that await as I begin to push these students to improve in the different areas where they struggle. As their teacher it is really more encouraging than daunting to see myself having to work harder to be a better teacher for each of them. I am absolutely passionate about diversity and diverse learning environments, which is a big reason I have been drawn to Immanuel Mission. I believe that this class can really teach me the most about the Navajo learner, so far. This class has begun the year with a good mix of learning deficiency or gaps in their learning. There is not one that is heads-or-tails better than the other and a balance exists of different subjects they struggle in. Along with this, as I learn more about their lives, I see a more balanced spectrum than in the past of socioeconomic, family lifestyle choices, and value system differences. This tells me a lot about who they are and their learning to this point. What a neat group of kids. Another beautiful quality about them is how open and honest each is. The level of trust we have right now, I believe, will go a long way by the end of the year.
I am so excited about the possibilities that go along with the differentiated instruction I have already begun and the results will be amazing. Please pray for 4th grade as we take one day at a time, praying that our communication with each other will stay strong and that God will get all the glory for the accomplishments in store.