So often I look outside the classroom to chat with movers and shakers in Tallmadge. This week I tapped into the wisdom and voice of 5 amazing students, 2 of which are seniors. This year has been a strange one. Here in Tallmadge we have spent time remote, but the majority of the year we have been on a hybrid schedule. The goal was to have our students in front of a teacher 5 out of 10 days. We divided them up by alphabet and they were put into Gold and Blue teams. This interview was with my Blue students. Funny how a hybrid schedule breaks up the classroom and then each day and block takes on their very own personality. These students are my "philosophers." They took a deep dive into serious topics, on a bi-daily basis.
If you were sitting at the socially distanced table with us the students would be sitting in this order, moving from my left:
Josh: Junior: passionate golfer and a young man of character. His desire is to honor the legacy of his grandfather by becoming the best person he can possibly be.
Lexi: Junior: passionate softball player and barista at Dunkin Donuts! This young lady loves being on the field with her teammates. Having to overcome the loss of a season due to COVID she is making the most of this season.
Kai: Sophomore: this young lady is the only sophomore in any of my psychology classes. She is a young woman of conviction and bravery. Having overcome many obstacles in her life she uses her experiences to help others. Recently she shared boldly with the class her struggles with anxiety and depression opening the door to a long discussion with other students dealing with the same thing. It was an amazing hour of heartfelt discussion.
Shannon: Senior: this class leader is passionate about traveling and diversity. She can't wait to get out there and experience all the world has to offer. Her desire is to learn from everyone. I have had her twice as a student, and she has had an everlasting impact on me.
Jacob: Senior: this kid will WOW you with his ability to recall information learned about everything! Not a class would go by where the student would teach the teacher. He is passionate about the outdoors and looks to be a Park Ranger someday.
I hope you enjoy this episode. These young people are amazing. They each have a story and they are stories worth sharing.
Enjoy!
