Rule 1: We are a Family

In Instructional Strategies, we watched The Story of Ron Clark. This is the most inspirational movie I have seen in a very long time, and important for anyone who wishes to make a difference in education. I also bought his book, The Essential 55. These are his rules for "discovering the successful student in every child," which is exactly what he did. The methods he used in his teaching were so effective and these rules are indespensible. Not only did his students learn what they were supposed to for the next grade, they learned life skills that changed their behaviors and attitudes toward school and life in general. Mr. Clark used what the students already knew by making a rap about the presidents. This appealed to them greatly, and really showed them how much he cared about their learning. He used Maslow's Hierarcy of Needs and appealed to the students, going above and beyond. He made sure that the students felt safe before he even began teaching. His rules were strict, but they promoted a classroom community, security and stability. They all felt that they were loved and needed, because Mr. Clark's number one rule was "We are a family." One person's actions affected the rest of the class, like when one student wouldn't line up so the whole class had to wait for lunch until she would. Many home issues influence the type of student that a child becomes, but can also be countered with tutoring, building up self-esteem, and recognizing students for their good behaviors. Some of the students felt hopeless, and had given up on themselves because their teacher gave up on them. Because Mr. Clark treated them as equals, made them feel smart, and had high expectations, the students respected him. His academic strides were the result of the relationship he created with the class through fulfilling their needs.

A recent rap that Ron Clark made for the election:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKQE4vtVrJI&feature=related