In a world where academic achievement often takes precedence, I hold a firm belief that education is fundamentally relationship-centered. This belief forms the heart of the ‘Relationships before rigor’ quote, I wrote at the start of the pandemic, which underscores the paramount importance of nurturing robust connections with students before delving into the complexities of academic rigor. While academic excellence is undoubtedly a vital component of education, it is most effectively realized within the framework of strong, supportive relationships. I firmly believe that without these relationships, we never truly unlock the full potential of our students. This perspective emphasizes that the true foundation for intellectual growth, resilience, and lasting success in students begins with the establishment of trust, empathy, and an environment where students feel valued and secure. By prioritizing relationships, educators create a safe space in which students can make mistakes, explore, and develop a love for learning, ultimately fostering a holistic and enduring approach to education. This principle goes beyond the mere recognition of the importance of academic rigor; it advocates that a deeper connection with students is a prerequisite for unleashing their brilliance.
Relationships before rigor: The importance of prioritizing relationships over academic rigor. I have gotten push back at times from people saying rigor is important too and it should say and instead of before, but my response is that while academic rigor is important for student achievement, it cannot be effective without a foundation of healthy relationships. It’s not about importance but about priority and the relationship has to come first. When students feel supported and valued, they are more likely to embrace challenges and persevere through difficult tasks. They are more willing to take risks, ask questions, and engage in critical thinking.
By prioritizing relationships, educators create a safe space for students to make mistakes and learn from them. They provide the emotional support and guidance that students need to navigate through their educational journey. When students feel safe to make mistakes, they are more likely to take ownership of their learning and become independent thinkers.
Moreover, relationships before rigor promotes holistic development. Education is not just about academic success; it is about nurturing the whole child. When educators prioritize relationships, they focus on the social, emotional, and cognitive development of each student. They acknowledge that students have diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs, and they tailor their instruction accordingly. This personalized approach fosters a love for learning and helps students develop a growth mindset.
Grace before grades: In a world that often prioritizes grades and test scores, it is crucial to shift the focus to grace before grades. By nurturing a supportive learning environment, educators create a space where students feel safe to take risks and make mistakes without fear of judgment or failure.
One way to nurture a supportive learning environment is by practicing empathy and understanding. Educators should strive to understand the unique challenges and strengths of each student. This requires active listening, open communication, and a willingness to adapt teaching strategies to meet individual needs. When students feel understood and supported, they are more likely to engage in their learning and overcome obstacles.
Another important aspect of nurturing a supportive learning environment is fostering a sense of community. This can be achieved through team-building activities, collaborative projects, and creating opportunities for students to connect with one another. When students feel a sense of belonging and connection, they are more likely to support and encourage one another. This creates a positive and inclusive classroom culture where everyone feels valued and respected.
Furthermore, educators should prioritize positive reinforcement and celebrate student successes, no matter how small. By focusing on effort, improvement, and growth, rather than just grades, educators can instill a sense of confidence and motivation in their students. This encourages a love for learning and helps students develop a growth mindset, where they see challenges as opportunities for growth and development. Ultimately, prioritizing grace before grades and nurturing a supportive learning environment not only benefits academic achievement but also the overall well-being and personal growth of students.
Patience before programs: In education, it is easy to get caught up in implementing the latest programs and initiatives. However, it is important to remember that patience before programs is essential for building strong relationships with students.
Understanding and compassion are two powerful tools that educators can use to connect with their students on a deeper level. Understanding and compassion are two powerful tools that educators can use to connect with their students on a deeper level. By making an effort to understand each student’s unique background, experiences, and needs, educators can better adapt their instruction and support. This personalized approach conveys to students that they are seen and valued as individuals, ultimately fostering trust and a sense of belonging.
Empathy is equally important in building strong relationships. Educators should strive at times to put themselves in their students’ shoes and see the world from their perspective. This requires active listening, open-mindedness, and a genuine desire to understand and support each student. When students feel understood and empathized with, they are more likely to feel safe and comfortable sharing their thoughts, concerns, and struggles.
Patience before programs allows educators to take the time to build rapport with their students. It is important to remember that relationships take time to develop and cannot be rushed. By investing time and effort into getting to know their students, educators can create a foundation of trust and respect. This foundation is crucial for effective teaching and learning, as it creates an environment where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and seek help when needed. Sometimes, this patience means giving students a chance, a second chance, or even a third chance to get something right, as they won’t always excel every time. Ultimately, by prioritizing patience and empathy, educators can pave the way for both academic success and the overall well-being of their students
Love Before Lessons: is a powerful concept that underscores the significance of establishing deep connections with students. When educators genuinely care about their students’ well-being and success, it creates a robust foundation for learning and personal growth.
Building authentic relationships with students is central to this concept, built upon trust, respect, and empathy. Educators should invest time in getting to know their students as unique individuals, delving beyond their academic capabilities. This can be achieved through meaningful conversations, one-on-one meetings, and a sincere interest in their lives and interests. By demonstrating that students are valued and cherished, educators cultivate a safe and supportive learning environment.
Moreover, “love before lessons” places a strong emphasis on prioritizing students’ social and emotional well-being. Educators should create opportunities for students to express themselves, share their thoughts and feelings, and develop their social skills. When students feel emotionally supported, they are more likely to engage in their learning and perform better academically.
It’s important to note that “loving the students” doesn’t necessarily mean always liking them every day. Educators understand that sometimes certain students may test their patience, but loving them is about acknowledging that they are still trying to figure out life and themselves. It is about wanting the best for them, but also caring enough to expect the best from them so they can be successful. By setting high expectations and offering guidance, educators help students realize their full potential and encourage them to strive for success in both their academic and personal journeys.”
Finally, In every aspect of the ‘Relationships before rigor,’ ‘Grace before grades,’ ‘Patience before programs,’ and ‘Love Before Lessons’ philosophies, it is the primacy of relationships that holds them together. By embodying these principles, educators create spaces where students not only thrive academically but also flourish emotionally, socially, and personally. In nurturing these strong, supportive relationships, we pave the way for our students to reach their highest potential, and in doing so, we build the future with resilience, empathy, and boundless possibility.