Research and common sense tell us that educators positively impact student learning and achievement when they connect their students’ lives outside of school to their learning and the larger school community. But it can be challenging for educators to connect each student’s personal interests, needs, strengths, and circumstances to the material and school community. For students with the greatest obstacles, making these connections is often more challenging but still absolutely critical.
On this episode of the Whole Child Podcast, you’ll hear from two guests who will share strategies for meeting students where they are now, while preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Eric Jensen, author of Teaching with Poverty in Mind: What Being Poor Does to Kids’ Brains and What Schools Can Do About It, identifies action steps educators can take to address student risk factors—including health and safety issues and cognitive, social, and emotional challenges—and help students’ brains catch up. Sean Slade, the new director of ASCD’s Healthy School Communities Initiative, shares his expertise in connecting students to their learning environment and fostering resilience, well-being, and success. Hear all this and more on the Whole Child Podcast: Changing the Conversation About Education. Download the podcast today!
How do you connect students’ lives to what they are learning? Share your ideas and questions with other educators committed to meeting students where they are.
