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This educator believes creating a school environment where it’s OK for students to share their stories is of the utmost importance—for students and educators.

“I'm just not good at math,” my daughter grumbled under her breath. I was surprised. Where did she get that idea, I wondered. As far as I can remember she has loved numbers and was quick to pick up math concepts. However, I began to see her confidence slowly wither and her frustration rise. It started in the 2nd grade. And, now, she sat at the kitchen table with pencil in hand, ready to give up, convinced she just couldn't do it anymore.

Middle school teachers struggle to find ways to respond to bullying, teasing, name-calling and exclusionary practices among students. We tread lightly sometimes, afraid of saying the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time thus making conditions worse for a bullied student. Being heavy-handed almost never works. Students also know how to say the right thing to adults and then act in a completely contrary way towards peers.

Conversations about religious diversity can happen in the classroom. Start by making a safe space where folks can tell their stories and share their religious identities.

Have you noticed students being excluded in your classroom? A new seating arrangement can make all the difference.

When this literature teacher completes a book with her class and hears a student say, “Reading this makes me happy I am an American,” she flips the script.

Dispelling stigma allows young people to get the mental health support they need.

This teacher offers suggestions for how to better support our colleagues and create a more just and welcoming environment across the entire school.