As someone with family from Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and Skeetchestn, it’s important to me that my teaching philosophy is rooted in a holistic pedagogy and framework. I’ve deeply connected with Dr. Martin Brokenleg’s Circle of Courage, which has helped shape what I want to emphasize in my practice.
“The resilient people, when life knocks them down, get up one more time.”
– Dr. Martin Brokenleg
Dr. Martin Brokenleg’s quote — which stems from his work with the Circle of Courage — speaks directly to my teaching philosophy. Canada is a complex country, and having an underlying resilience helps people navigate and thrive. Everyone faces hardships and adversity, and the earlier someone begins bolstering their resilience, the better. As an educator, I believe it’s my duty to ensure students are holistically developing themselves and not just remaining in a uniform, academic lane.
Technical skills like mathematics, reading, and digital literacy are very important to focus on. But, soft skills, including critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and logical reasoning, must also be sharpened for students to traverse the ever-changing world optimally.
As the Circle of Courage suggests, there are four main aspects that should be at the forefront of education to bolster resilience: belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. A major thing I value about education is that it acts as a catalyst for preparing youth for adulthood and the ups and downs of the “real world.”
Students should have a safe and open place to learn. But, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t face challenges and be uncomfortable — these are paramount experiences that’ll lead to growth and resilience. Further, school is inherently community-based. In times where socializing takes place more and more online, school is a social outlet that can teach students how to become diverse, empathetic and depth-driven colleagues and friends.
As a teacher, I plan to facilitate lessons and units that build students’ technical and soft skills in a community-driven classroom. Using randomized groups, table talks, and social hours, I’ll usher in teaching from the Circle of Courage to set the tone for a holistic classroom.