Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/859531
CORRIE TR AYNOR Dry Creek Teachers Association Fifth-grade multisubject teacher " When we teach children that mistakes are a part of the learning process, they learn how to problem- solve and never give up." Every year, Traynor shares her story of growing up with dyslexia and severe reading disability with her students. " This lets them understand that I truly understand what they are going through when they struggle," she says. Her underlying message: "My students know they can all be successful if they work hard and persevere, and I will not give up on them." Instilling perseverance: A teacher needs to gain students' trust. I have found that once my students know and trust me, they will work harder and persevere through very difficult tasks and concepts. My classroom is a safe place where students can learn and grow as a community. A kid who does not feel safe and valued will struggle to learn. The value of mistakes: I find students are motivated with praise for what they have specifically accomplished, not by false praise. We celebrate mistakes and learn how mistakes help us to "grow brain." When we teach children that mis- takes are a part of the learning process, they learn how to problem-solve and never give up. Teaching students with learning challenges: We must believe that all children can be successful with our support , and always keep our expectations high. We need to teach each individual child the way that they need to be taught. It is at times a daunting task , but we cannot give up on those who need us the most. Advice to teachers who may be hitting a wall: Do not be afraid or too proud to ask for help. I could not do my job without my supportive grade- level, schoolwide and district PLC teams. Find a coach/mentor to help work through your struggles. Find what gives you strength to help you through the good and difficult times. I've found that reading current educational research or professional devel- opment helps me refocus on why I do what I do each year. Take care of yourself and not just everyone else. SHAUN BUNN Romoland Teachers Association Eighth-grade math teacher Every year, Bunn returns to Cambodia, where he helps feed children — many of them off the streets. He and his family dodged bullets and land mines while fleeing the country 's civil war. They spent several years in a Thai refugee camp before settling in the U.S. Bunn grew up in poverty as an English learner. He knows the power of per- sonal stories, and weaves them into class time. Once a month his students have "community circle time," where they can discuss any- thing, including personal problems at home and school, or what's happening in the community. Bunn shares some of his own experi- ences as a way to engage and connect with his class. Being authentic: Be true to who you are. The stu- dents will get it right away if you're not real. Be true but firm. Students will appreciate you, because most of our students need stability. Some do not have that guidance at home. Advice to new educators as an induction coach: For the first two years in your career, you will work harder than For information on California Teachers of the Year, see cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/ct. 24 cta.org Back to School T H E P R O F E S S I O N