A teacher should be able to show students that the world has so much in store for them and that there are endless possibilities within their reach. We can show students the world and what it has to offer them through music, literature, art, and just the sheer pleasure and delight of the wonders that surround us. I realize that it is very difficult for students to understand what the world has to offer them and what is waiting for them, especially in our urban schools. However, I believe it is possible. Maybe I am hopeful but I need to be if I expect to bring a sense of excitement to my students. Teachers make a real difference in the lives of and development of their students. A student telling you that he or she has expanded or changed his or her view about some aspect of life is powerful and rewarding. One element that is important that needs to be an integral part of this conversation is that the school district, the individual school and the administration needs to assume some responsibility in helping teachers put this concept into action. Teachers cannot do this all alone.
Our schools prepare students to become productive members of their communities and full participating citizens in our democratic system. We need to change the culture of our school to make education more relevant to our students. We need to meet students where they live, responding to their unique culture. Schools should be agents of change and teachers, teacher leaders, and school administrators (not politicians—local, state, or federal) should be at the helm. The concept of our schools being agents of change is not new. It goes back to the Progressive era and Dewey. Jane Addams even addresses this issue in her writings.
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