Establishing Inclusive Environment

Students spend about 30-40 hours a week in school. As teachers, it is part of our duty to ensure that the environment we create for them is one that is safe and inclusive. One of the ways I do this is by recognizing and promoting gender diversity. Doing something as simple as stating my pronouns at the start of my practicum is a way of employing classroom management strategies that promote positive, engaging learning environments. As seen alongside, I worked with a group of student teachers to create a presentation about conversations around gender norms. By engaging in these conversations where appropriate, students are more likely to be able to see the teacher as a safe person that they can confide in. This allows me as the teacher to be aware of and facilitate responses to the emotional and mental health needs of my students and once again ensure that they are getting the support, love, and care that each one of them deserves.