This chosen example for the first TRB Standard demonstrates that some of the most important lessons are taught outside of the traditional school day and that at the heart of all effective education is a teacher who cares for and values their students. In reflecting on this particular example I’ve come to realize that the critical piece to the success of these evening meals is my care for the children. If all other aspects of these evenings were the same, but the staff present were distant and uncaring, then the activity would be of little value or even detrimental as students would not be given the same opportunity to develop socially and emotionally. I’m reminded of the meals at the orphanage depicted in Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist and find encouragement in the contrast between those cold meals in the story and our warm and loving family dinners alive with learning and laughing.
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I believe this experience exemplifies my adherence to TRB Standard 2. Throughout this difficult event, my focus and priority was on the well being of the students in my care. My objective was to ensure their physical and emotional safety, and I succeeded in assuaging their feelings of panic and uncertainty. Upon reflecting on this experience, I am encouraged by the realization of my priorities. I learned that my first instinct and response to a stressful and dangerous situation was to care for the vulnerable people around me, and this aligns with the ideals of this Standard.
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