Having a safe space to imagine and dream and (re)invent yourself is the first step to being happy and successful, whatever road you choose to pursue.
Ashley Bryan, We Rise We Resist We Raise Our Voices foreword
Hope, a mark of hope, a small piece of washi tape from a student now in my notebook reminding me that I am in a safe space.
Creating a safe space for writers is my top goal as an ELA teacher. When I hear a student read aloud their most fresh and vulnerable words, I am honored. Sometimes they don’t want to share; however, they will hand me their notebook to read. They are watching my eyes for the glow of adoration. I do adore what they write. They are confident children. I need to remember, though, that they are children. They need my validation. My words of encouragement. A sign of hope.
A mark of hope
Margaret Simon, draft
a place to be
A dream to dream
a road to see
you see in me
a hand with a gift
a mark of hope
a place to be
Reflections on the Teche 