Enid Martinez - Teachers Make a Difference

The speaker reflects on the impact of past teachers and their own teaching experiences. They discuss the challenges of teaching a diverse, bilingual class with students of varying ages and educational backgrounds. The speaker emphasizes the importance of teaching beyond the curriculum by understanding students' personal interests and challenges. They highlight the significance of building personal connections with students to enhance learning. Despite the difficulties, the speaker expresses gratitude for these formative teaching years.

What was unique about the educator's first teaching assignment?

• It was a class focused solely on advanced mathematics.

• It was a bilingual self-contained pilot class with students aged 12 to 16.

• It was a class with students who were all native English speakers.

• It was a class with students who had all completed high school.

What realization did the educator have during the challenging early years of teaching?

• That students do not need personal attention.

• That focusing solely on reading and writing is sufficient.

• That understanding students as individuals is crucial for effective teaching.

• That teaching is only about delivering the curriculum.

How did the educator's eighth period class often transform?

• Into a group therapy session where students shared personal stories.

• Into a math tutoring session.

• Into a silent reading period.

• Into a sports practice session.

What did the educator find to be the best way to engage students in reading?

• By choosing only classic literature.

• By selecting books based on students' personal interests and dreams.

• By letting students choose books without guidance.

• By assigning random books.

Why does the educator consider the first two years of teaching as the best?

• Because they required no lesson planning.

• Because they involved teaching only advanced students.

• Because they provided valuable insights into connecting with students.

• Because they were the easiest years.