Ashley Thompson

      Fostering effective relationships is important because it ensures that all students feel valued in the classroom. When students feel valued they are more likely to engage in learning and contribute positively to the classroom environment. Strong and positive relationships enrich learning as the creation of a powerful bond results in trust between teacher and student. Fostering relationships with parents, colleges and community members is equally important as it allows teachers to connect with different aspects of student life to keep learning fun and purposeful. 

          In my first practicum at River Heights, my mentor teacher recalled an event where I welcomed a student who came late. It can be easy to scold these students, but it is more effective to be excited and friendly as they enter the classroom to reinforce that the student and valued and deserves a place in the classroom.