Reflecting on my first two years of teaching, I encountered numerous situations that left me feeling despondent, shattered, and utterly exhausted. One particular day stands out in my memory; I was frantically trying to create a graphic organizer for my students’ first essay when a disruptive student barged into my classroom and adamantly refused to leave. The situation escalated as the student declared their hatred for me, leaving me feeling helpless and overwhelmed.
Another incident that remains vivid in my mind involved students from another teacher’s class entering my room and disparaging that teacher, claiming he was unfair and unpleasant. Later, I received a message from the teacher indicating that the students were on their way to my class.
What struck me about these experiences was the fact that all the students who sought refuge in my classroom were students of color, while the teachers they sought to avoid were all white. The school’s demographics further emphasized this discrepancy, with 60 percent Latino, 20 percent Pacific Islander, and 20 percent Black students. It became evident to me that students of color did not feel safe with their white teachers, who seemed reluctant to provide the necessary support and care.
As I navigated through my first year post the “Zoom Year,” I realized that teachers of color often bear the burden of supporting students of color, leading to their potential departure from the education sector. This exodus results in a less diverse workforce and deprives students of accurate reflections of themselves.
Seek Consent
When faced with situations where teachers redirected their students to me, I yearned for a simple act of consent. An agreement between both parties acknowledging the student’s presence and the reasons behind it could have fostered transparency and respect. I believe in fostering a culture where consent guides our interactions, from casual hallway conversations to more critical discussions surrounding student needs.
Creating a conducive school environment involves promoting consensual and collaborative dialogues that prioritize mutual understanding and respect.
Build Empathy
Empathy lies at the heart of effective teaching. Acknowledging our fallibility and embracing empathy towards ourselves and others is crucial in fostering supportive learning environments. As a teacher of color, I yearn for my white counterparts to recognize my humanity, acknowledge my challenges, and show empathy towards my experiences.
Encouraging regular perspective-taking sessions helps build empathy and understanding among educators, fostering a culture of mutual respect and compassion.
Show Humility
Embracing humility and accountability is essential in the education sector. White teachers should acknowledge their privilege, reflect on their actions, and be willing to apologize for any harm caused. By demonstrating humility and vulnerability, educators can create a more inclusive and supportive school culture.
Leadership plays a crucial role in modeling humility and fostering a culture of accountability and empathy among all staff members.
Building a Future for Teachers of Color
Creating a supportive and inclusive school environment not only benefits teachers but also nurtures students’ growth and development. Affirming racial identities, engaging in restorative conversations, and advocating for colleagues are essential steps in promoting equity and understanding in education settings.
By leveraging their power and privilege, white teachers can support their colleagues of color and foster a culture of mutual care and respect. In a world where educators uplift and empower each other, students of color find inspiration and hope for a brighter future.
Ultimately, by nurturing a culture of consent, empathy, and humility, educators can create a dynamic where love and care are shared mutually, leading to a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
