INSPIRING STUDENTS

CIELITO D. PEÑA, Ed.D.

As teachers, we want our students to face challenges – which can change their lives, for the better. They should respond to challenges with creativity, and conditions must be encouraging.

Learning is not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. Students learn in different ways, much like teachers teach differently.

What teachers should do is to focus on their students’strengths. Not all of them is good at everything – some are good in math, others in English. Some love science, but hate history. It’s a matter of finding the right balance.

Also, it would make no sense pushing someone who is good in math but struggles with English into more lectures on grammar and punctuation. Because his strength is in numbers, why not push him into advanced Math classes?

There are exceptional students out there who can survive on their own academically. But there are average students who should be encouraged and nurtured, so that their passions, interests, and strengths may prevail.

Students need a reason to create, so suggestions are very much welcome from teachers and peers. These will be what will challenge them to create something fantastic.

We live in a world where resources are constrained, so we must give our students time for creativity. The waiting time will be difficult, but we need to be patient so we can see the results.

As teachers, we must guide them by exposing them to an idea, because they are not just going to dream something up. We have to pique their curiosity.

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The author is Head Teacher III at Sta. Rita Elementary School, San Luis District