Everything You See Is A Reflection Of You
Written by Teaching Lab Staff
If a classroom’s walls were mirrors, they would not only reflect the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of the students but also cast back the inner soul, beliefs, and deeds of the teacher. This profound understanding of what happens inside the confines of a classroom is further explored by Bethany Brown – Manager, Program at Teaching Lab – in the latest episode of “The Power of a Black Teacher!” hosted by Tamala Wiley.
Bethany began her journey as a math teacher and then a facilitator, where she emphasized that every student is deserving of high-quality education; however, during this journey, she encountered barriers — not in the students but within the educational systems and the adults who ran them. Her narrative shines a light on the pernicious effects of biases, prejudices, and preconceived notions that teachers and administrators may carry with them, often unconsciously. These biases not only affect their interactions with students but also shape the educational experiences these young minds receive.
Black Hair Culture
The anecdote of "crazy hair day" at a predominantly Black school serves as a stark example. To the external observer, it may seem like a harmless, fun activity, but when viewed through the lens of cultural awareness and sensitivity, it unveils layers of microaggressions and misinterpretations. When an educator fails to differentiate between a deliberate style and the possible everyday struggles of a student, they inadvertently strip the student of their dignity, casting judgment based on shallow interpretations of Black hair culture.
Such biases are not confined to the classroom alone. They permeate professional learning spaces, where excuses replace critical reflections and understanding. These spaces should be platforms for educators to confront their biases, challenge their preconceptions, and engage in difficult, yet necessary, conversations about racial identity and its influence in the classroom.
A Reflection of You (The Teacher)
To new and veteran educators alike, Bethany offers a pivotal point of introspection: What did you have access to growing up that impacted your educational journey, and how can you ensure your students receive the same, if not better, opportunities? This perspective steers away from a savior complex, emphasizing that teachers are not there to rescue students but to act as a model of what learning should be.
But perhaps the most powerful takeaway is the idea that students don't walk into classrooms with an intent to disrupt or challenge. Instead, their actions and reactions are a reflection of the environment created by the educator. Recognizing this can be the first step to creating a more inclusive, understanding, and effective learning space.
To Bethany Brown, the power of a Black teacher — or any teacher who truly understands, empathizes, and connects with their students — can be summed up as saturating, enlightening, and most importantly, necessary. For it's in this power that we find the potential to reshape and elevate the future of education.
