As a teacher of gifted students in first through fifth grade, it is my job to create a challenging environment. I always tell my students that if I am not challenging them, then I am not doing my job. I never thought for a moment that a student would think that my classroom was not hard.
One day one of my 5th graders said to me, “Target class is easier than regular 5th grade.” Target is what we call our gifted program. At first, I was devastated. I always reflect on my teaching and what I am doing in my room. I thought about what he said and pondered why he might have made this statement. I questioned whether or not I was challenging my students. And then I reflected on my teaching philosophy, pedagogy, and style. I implement a service learning framework in my classes. My front door has a sign on it that says, “This is a passion-driven classroom, enter with enthusiasm!” My students are able to find their passions and do what they love. These students chose to be in my room; at the end of 4th grade we gave students a survey to determine the type of classroom they wanted to explore. This student has initiative, problem-solves, and is working on a project he is passionate about. My students investigate, explore, research, and present findings on real-world problems and issues. These students get to make a difference!
We do Mystery Skype and Skype with experts in the fields we are studying. We take virtual field trips using Skype and have collaborated with classes across the country who are studying similar things. I use Breakout.edu and students use problem-solving skills as they participate in digital and classroom breakouts. My fourth graders run a pop-up restaurant each year to benefit Must Ministries. They volunteer at the food bank warehouse, learn how to run a restaurant at a local diner, and work in our gardens to grow food.
I recently read an amazing book by Tim Elmore called, “Marching off the Map.” His book resonated with me and validated what I am doing! I am a “pioneer,” who integrates technology, allows students to study what they are passionate about, to be problem finders and problem solvers. They make their own decisions. I am a facilitator, their guide, their coach, their cheerleader! When they are learning like this, it doesn’t seem hard; it is exciting, invigorating, engaging, and fun! It reminds me to keep moving forward, keep seeking out lessons that challenge my students to challenge themselves! My class may not be hard, but it is challenging!
Teach to Serve Others 