Rita Pierson: Every kid needs a champion

The speaker shares insights from a lifetime in education, emphasizing the critical role of relationships in learning. They recount personal experiences and strategies for building connections with students, highlighting the importance of understanding and empowering them. The speaker reflects on the lasting impact of teachers and the challenges and joys of the profession, advocating for every child to have a champion who believes in them.

What is one key factor that the speaker believes is often overlooked in education reform?

• Curriculum development

• Human connection and relationships

• Standardized testing

• Technology integration

According to the speaker, what is a simple action that can surprise students and help build relationships?

• Apologizing for mistakes

• Giving extra homework

• Organizing field trips

• Assigning group projects

How did the speaker encourage students to feel special and motivated in their class?

• By giving them extra recess time

• By allowing them to choose their own seats

• By telling them they were chosen for their potential

• By reducing their homework load

What did the speaker do to help a student who scored poorly on a quiz?

• Gave them a retake

• Highlighted their correct answers

• Ignored the result

• Assigned extra homework

What did the speaker's mother keep in her desk to help students in need?

• Snacks and hygiene items

• Toys and games

• Extra pencils and paper

• Books and magazines

What does the speaker believe every child deserves in their educational journey?

• A high-tech classroom

• A strict disciplinarian

• A champion who believes in them

• A friend in every class

What is the speaker's view on the challenges of teaching?

• It is a temporary job

• It is only for the highly educated

• It is tough but not impossible

• It is easy and straightforward