Eyes On Culture - Kimberly Hurdhorst Writes about hope and bravery and watching her students grow. I have had enough years in the classroom to begin to build some stories of my own.
This school year, I have had a few ‘tough nuts’ placed on my teaching team. I am aware of this - the guidance counselor told me so because I have the ability to see beyond behaviors and believe in students and their ability to be more than the actions they display.
Recently, I have two that had rough starts to the school year, for different reasons, but they feed off each other in common settings. Fortunately, I have been able to have them in separate classes, separate conversations and step up for them in different situations.
With a lot of faith and work and belief and a little bit of something more like magic, each has been able to thrive in their own ways. Their behaviors in my classroom have improved dramatically, I don't hear about them from my colleagues in the same way, and just today, I heard from our assistant principal that they are seeing a change in one of these young men. Specifically, they are NOT seeing him in the office as they have historically seen him.
Something is changing within him, within both of them. .They are working, believing in themselves, seeing positive results, and getting attention for doing the "right" things. All it took was some overt belief, some well-placed praise, and a true enjoyment of who each of these learners are as young people.
One story that truly inspired me in this chapter was the example of the hotel shuttle driver who went out of his way to support and connect with the author’s group, even though it wasn’t technically part of his job description. His willingness to step in, offer help, and build genuine relationships—simply because he cared—reminded me of the quiet but powerful influence small acts of hope can have. In education, we often hesitate to go the extra mile because we worry about overstepping roles or responsibilities, yet students benefit most when we follow our instincts to serve, support, and connect. This story encourages me to lead with heart, trust my judgment, and look for moments where I can offer hope, encouragement, or guidance, even when it’s not formally expected. It’s a reminder that impact often begins with doing what is right, not just what is required.
I love the story about the shuttle bus driver. It shows how we can be touched and inspired in our every day interactions. It hows the power of how one person has the power to break or build. This story to me is inspirational because it shows how we can go the extra step for each other. We can be extraordinary by showing up for people and helping them accomplish what the need. It is inspirational and also a bit sad how a simple act of kindness has become so above average. But maybe, with enough of these stories and experiences floating around the world, we will all be inspired to be the best versions of ourselves and do more than what is just expected from us.
I appreciated the story of Rod Jackson. He took the moments he had with the people he was driving with to really listen to them, care about conversation with them and leave a lasting impression. I hope to do this with my students, staff and others in my world. People matter and often we are in a hurry and don't realize how important moments like this are.
I was inspired by Benton's story. I try very hard to learn every students' name in my school whether or not they are my student. As I've stated before I do have the advantage of having the kids a lot of years because of teaching music. Some students I have had since the 5th grade. However, there are a lot of students that I haven't had. I try to learn their faces and names as quickly as I can. One of the things my 5th grade kids love to do when I'm learning their names is when I have them switch places. Then I quiz myself on knowing what their names are. Knowing someone's name is so important! I also try to learn a little something about my students. What are their likes and interests. I try to talk to them about their extra-curriculars, etc. I just loved reading about Benton's surprise that the teacher knew his name. And first graders are so fun!
I really enjoyed the story about Rod Jackson. He went out of his way with those who were riding in his vehicle. He had meaningful conversations, make the individuals feel welcome and comfortable. Many times people are in just a hurry and don't slow down and enjoy the moment that they are in. Anyone else could've ignored the guest and not talked to them. He could've just drove them from point a to point b and do his job, but he went above and beyond.
"Eyes on Culture" by Kelly Tenkely really stood out to me. Building relationships and really seeing my students is so important to me. She had so many more students than I do and worked hard to learn all of their names as quickly as she could. It's amazing what a difference it makes to truly get to know our students. This is how our students know we are there for them and believe in them always.
The quote that inspires me is: “Keep going. No matter what, keep going.” This reminds me that persistence is key, even when challenges feel overwhelming. I will apply this in my practice by modeling resilience for my students, encouraging them to try again after setbacks, and showing families that consistent effort and hope lead to growth and success.
The story of Kelly Tenkely and Benton inspires me. I understand the impact of knowing a child's name and treating him/her with respect. A person's name is so important and meaningful to each person, and opens the door to relationship more than many things that a person can do. I work with over 200 students each year in 7 different school buildings- and then, sometimes do not see him/her for another three years. My personal goal is to remember each child's name so that I can call him/her by name in the hallway. This is very difficult, especially when I am really busy, but when I do see a child and am able to say hello by name, it is so powerful!!
My choice was the story about Michael and everything that he went through. It really stands out to me because as teachers, we do not know everything that is going on in a student's life. Some teachers come to school, expect kids to behave and complete their work, and go home. Unfortunately, that is not how life goes. Three times a year (beginning, middle and end), I always have the kids fill in the blank, "I wish my teacher knew____________." My students know it is a safe zone and i have learned so much from this. Some teachers may do it once a year, but like us, students lives change throughout the school year also. I always take these things to heart because students have rough days, just like adults do and need a little bit more life and understanding. It goes along with that phrase, "students who are loved at home, come to school to learn and students who are not loved, come to school to be loved."
I really enjoyed the story about the shuttle bus driver. Two things kind of stuck out to me with it. #1 is that the driver went out of his way to help the authors group and obviously went above and beyond what his job requirements are in that line of work. #2 - Although it never specifically states this, I envision a driver who is really happy with his job. I can imagine that driving people to and from different places can be somewhat monotonous but you really get the feeling that this guy loves his job and what he does.
I was inspired by the Benton story because when kids know you care about them and their goals and aspirations, they will gravitate towards you and want you to know their life story and what they are into. I work with kids in careers class and seniors in their next chapter of their lives and I really enjoy working with kids and seeing their goals after graduation. Whatever they may be and just be excited for them and their future.
The story that sticks out to me the most is Mr. Leonard and Michael. It reminds me when I first started teaching and to get into the district that I wanted to, I took a teaching position on a behavior team. I thought I understood how to be compassionate and understanding but nothing will ever compare to the first home visit that I had to do. It made me understand that we need to meet students where they are and celebrate the smallest victories. Our first job is to provide a place where students feel safe. The curriculum does not matter until the students feel safe and can trust you. A mutual respect is the ultimate goal and must be achieved before the academics come into play.
Be A Merchant Of Hope: Choose either a quote or a story from this chapter that inspires you. Describe that inspiration and how you will apply it in your own practice.
I really liked "Picking Up The Pieces" When redirecting or disciplining a student I often talk about the behavior and what they can do next time. I remind them I care about them. However, I do not always ask them the 2 questions: Do you think I treated you fairly and Do you think I care about you. I really want to start to implement this in a way that is appropriate for kindergarten. Instead of a couple days later, I will do a check in at the end of the day. I also really like the story of the shuttle bus driver. It is so important to be kind to people and treat people with gratitude and respect. If someone does something that really makes you feel good or appreciated make sure you tell them right away. You never know how your words can impact a person. Maybe they are having a hard day and you telling them something positive will turn their whole day around.
One story that stands out to me from this chapter is that of the shuttle bus driver, Rodd Jackson. What inspires me is not just what he did, but how naturally he did it. He wasn’t trying to be a hero or do something grandiose or outside of his role. He simply treated people like they mattered. He listened, engaged in conversation, and made everyday interactions feel personal instead like boring and monotonous routines. That kind of presence can feel incredibly powerful in education because so much of our impact can occur in small, ordinary moments. It reminds me that students do not always need big interventions to feel supported. Sometimes they simply need to feel seen, heard, and valued in passing moments that could otherwise make them feel invisible. As a School Counselor, I want to carry that same mindset into the way I move through the high school building. Slowing down long enough to acknowledge students, remember details, and respond to or acknowledge them like each interaction matters. I also want to be more intentional about those low hanging fruit moments, saying hello in the morning to students who might need that simple start to their day. The takeaway for me is that hope is often built in the smallest exchanges. When I treat those moments as meaningful, I believe I can create more chances for students to feel connected and supported throughout their day.
Outside of the teacher, Benton was not know by name by the other staff at the school. That story hit me only because I have 450+ students as a computer teacher and I only get them for an hour a week, so knowing names and getting to know those names had been challenging. The students at the beginning sort of mocked me by asking me if I knew X student . Of course, I did make it a point to work on knowing names, but not nearly has hard as Tenkely.
Be A Merchant Of Hope: Choose either a quote or a story from this chapter that inspires you. Describe that inspiration and how you will apply it in your own practice.
A quote from this chapter that inspires me is, "Never lose sight of the fact that the most important measure of your success will be how you treat other people." This quote forces me to look at success beyond grades and accomplishments. It reminds me that the most important measures is how we make others feel. Students will never forget how their teachers made them feel. I know I remember how my teachers made me feel, especially the teachers said or did things that made me feel disrespected or unvalued. Therefore, it is important to remember that it is important to treat students with respect, kindness, and empathy. It is our job to create spaces where students feel safe, valued, and supported. I plan to continue applying this to my practice by building positive relationships with my students. I will take time to listen, support, and care for all the needs that they bring. I will not lose sight on the importance of treating others well, which will help me build positive relationships and become a source of encouragement for all, especially the students I serve.
I will remind myself everyday that my interactions with students are important. This will help me remember to take the time to truly listen and communicate words that I care about what they are sharing with me so they feel heard and supported. I want my students to know I care and support them beyond the classroom.
The story that resonated with me was the story about Benton. As a teacher of Special Education students, I often worked with those who were somewhat lost or left out. I made it my goal to know their names and some personal information about them. I also feel that using a person's name is very powerful. To acknowledge someone generically is one thing but to acknowledge them personally using their name is quite different. I am often approached by former students and it always breaks my heart if I am unable to recall their name. I see the difference it makes in their faces when I use their name. I feel the same when someone recalls my name in those situations, as well. Student's must know they are important to us and to the world if they are to meet the expectations given to them.
Eyes On Culture - Kimberly Hurdhorst
ReplyDeleteWrites about hope and bravery and watching her students grow. I have had enough years in the classroom to begin to build some stories of my own.
This school year, I have had a few ‘tough nuts’ placed on my teaching team. I am aware of this - the guidance counselor told me so because I have the ability to see beyond behaviors and believe in students and their ability to be more than the actions they display.
Recently, I have two that had rough starts to the school year, for different reasons, but they feed off each other in common settings. Fortunately, I have been able to have them in separate classes, separate conversations and step up for them in different situations.
With a lot of faith and work and belief and a little bit of something more like magic, each has been able to thrive in their own ways. Their behaviors in my classroom have improved dramatically, I don't hear about them from my colleagues in the same way, and just today, I heard from our assistant principal that they are seeing a change in one of these young men. Specifically, they are NOT seeing him in the office as they have historically seen him.
Something is changing within him, within both of them. .They are working, believing in themselves, seeing positive results, and getting attention for doing the "right" things. All it took was some overt belief, some well-placed praise, and a true enjoyment of who each of these learners are as young people.
One story that truly inspired me in this chapter was the example of the hotel shuttle driver who went out of his way to support and connect with the author’s group, even though it wasn’t technically part of his job description. His willingness to step in, offer help, and build genuine relationships—simply because he cared—reminded me of the quiet but powerful influence small acts of hope can have. In education, we often hesitate to go the extra mile because we worry about overstepping roles or responsibilities, yet students benefit most when we follow our instincts to serve, support, and connect. This story encourages me to lead with heart, trust my judgment, and look for moments where I can offer hope, encouragement, or guidance, even when it’s not formally expected. It’s a reminder that impact often begins with doing what is right, not just what is required.
ReplyDeleteI love the story about the shuttle bus driver. It shows how we can be touched and inspired in our every day interactions. It hows the power of how one person has the power to break or build. This story to me is inspirational because it shows how we can go the extra step for each other. We can be extraordinary by showing up for people and helping them accomplish what the need. It is inspirational and also a bit sad how a simple act of kindness has become so above average. But maybe, with enough of these stories and experiences floating around the world, we will all be inspired to be the best versions of ourselves and do more than what is just expected from us.
ReplyDeleteI appreciated the story of Rod Jackson. He took the moments he had with the people he was driving with to really listen to them, care about conversation with them and leave a lasting impression. I hope to do this with my students, staff and others in my world. People matter and often we are in a hurry and don't realize how important moments like this are.
ReplyDeleteI was inspired by Benton's story. I try very hard to learn every students' name in my school whether or not they are my student. As I've stated before I do have the advantage of having the kids a lot of years because of teaching music. Some students I have had since the 5th grade. However, there are a lot of students that I haven't had. I try to learn their faces and names as quickly as I can. One of the things my 5th grade kids love to do when I'm learning their names is when I have them switch places. Then I quiz myself on knowing what their names are. Knowing someone's name is so important! I also try to learn a little something about my students. What are their likes and interests. I try to talk to them about their extra-curriculars, etc. I just loved reading about Benton's surprise that the teacher knew his name. And first graders are so fun!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the story about Rod Jackson. He went out of his way with those who were riding in his vehicle. He had meaningful conversations, make the individuals feel welcome and comfortable. Many times people are in just a hurry and don't slow down and enjoy the moment that they are in. Anyone else could've ignored the guest and not talked to them. He could've just drove them from point a to point b and do his job, but he went above and beyond.
ReplyDelete"Eyes on Culture" by Kelly Tenkely really stood out to me. Building relationships and really seeing my students is so important to me. She had so many more students than I do and worked hard to learn all of their names as quickly as she could. It's amazing what a difference it makes to truly get to know our students. This is how our students know we are there for them and believe in them always.
ReplyDeleteThe quote that inspires me is: “Keep going. No matter what, keep going.” This reminds me that persistence is key, even when challenges feel overwhelming. I will apply this in my practice by modeling resilience for my students, encouraging them to try again after setbacks, and showing families that consistent effort and hope lead to growth and success.
ReplyDeleteThe story of Kelly Tenkely and Benton inspires me. I understand the impact of knowing a child's name and treating him/her with respect. A person's name is so important and meaningful to each person, and opens the door to relationship more than many things that a person can do. I work with over 200 students each year in 7 different school buildings- and then, sometimes do not see him/her for another three years. My personal goal is to remember each child's name so that I can call him/her by name in the hallway. This is very difficult, especially when I am really busy, but when I do see a child and am able to say hello by name, it is so powerful!!
ReplyDeleteMy choice was the story about Michael and everything that he went through. It really stands out to me because as teachers, we do not know everything that is going on in a student's life. Some teachers come to school, expect kids to behave and complete their work, and go home. Unfortunately, that is not how life goes. Three times a year (beginning, middle and end), I always have the kids fill in the blank, "I wish my teacher knew____________." My students know it is a safe zone and i have learned so much from this. Some teachers may do it once a year, but like us, students lives change throughout the school year also. I always take these things to heart because students have rough days, just like adults do and need a little bit more life and understanding. It goes along with that phrase, "students who are loved at home, come to school to learn and students who are not loved, come to school to be loved."
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the story about the shuttle bus driver. Two things kind of stuck out to me with it. #1 is that the driver went out of his way to help the authors group and obviously went above and beyond what his job requirements are in that line of work. #2 - Although it never specifically states this, I envision a driver who is really happy with his job. I can imagine that driving people to and from different places can be somewhat monotonous but you really get the feeling that this guy loves his job and what he does.
ReplyDeleteI was inspired by the Benton story because when kids know you care about them and their goals and aspirations, they will gravitate towards you and want you to know their life story and what they are into. I work with kids in careers class and seniors in their next chapter of their lives and I really enjoy working with kids and seeing their goals after graduation. Whatever they may be and just be excited for them and their future.
ReplyDeleteThe story that sticks out to me the most is Mr. Leonard and Michael. It reminds me when I first started teaching and to get into the district that I wanted to, I took a teaching position on a behavior team. I thought I understood how to be compassionate and understanding but nothing will ever compare to the first home visit that I had to do. It made me understand that we need to meet students where they are and celebrate the smallest victories. Our first job is to provide a place where students feel safe. The curriculum does not matter until the students feel safe and can trust you. A mutual respect is the ultimate goal and must be achieved before the academics come into play.
ReplyDeleteBe A Merchant Of Hope: Choose either a quote or a story from this chapter that inspires you.
ReplyDeleteDescribe that inspiration and how you will apply it in your own practice.
I really liked "Picking Up The Pieces" When redirecting or disciplining a student I often talk about the behavior and what they can do next time. I remind them I care about them. However, I do not always ask them the 2 questions: Do you think I treated you fairly and Do you think I care about you. I really want to start to implement this in a way that is appropriate for kindergarten. Instead of a couple days later, I will do a check in at the end of the day.
I also really like the story of the shuttle bus driver. It is so important to be kind to people and treat people with gratitude and respect. If someone does something that really makes you feel good or appreciated make sure you tell them right away. You never know how your words can impact a person. Maybe they are having a hard day and you telling them something positive will turn their whole day around.
One story that stands out to me from this chapter is that of the shuttle bus driver, Rodd Jackson. What inspires me is not just what he did, but how naturally he did it. He wasn’t trying to be a hero or do something grandiose or outside of his role. He simply treated people like they mattered. He listened, engaged in conversation, and made everyday interactions feel personal instead like boring and monotonous routines. That kind of presence can feel incredibly powerful in education because so much of our impact can occur in small, ordinary moments. It reminds me that students do not always need big interventions to feel supported. Sometimes they simply need to feel seen, heard, and valued in passing moments that could otherwise make them feel invisible. As a School Counselor, I want to carry that same mindset into the way I move through the high school building. Slowing down long enough to acknowledge students, remember details, and respond to or acknowledge them like each interaction matters. I also want to be more intentional about those low hanging fruit moments, saying hello in the morning to students who might need that simple start to their day. The takeaway for me is that hope is often built in the smallest exchanges. When I treat those moments as meaningful, I believe I can create more chances for students to feel connected and supported throughout their day.
ReplyDeleteOutside of the teacher, Benton was not know by name by the other staff at the school. That story hit me only because I have 450+ students as a computer teacher and I only get them for an hour a week, so knowing names and getting to know those names had been challenging. The students at the beginning sort of mocked me by asking me if I knew X student . Of course, I did make it a point to work on knowing names, but not nearly has hard as Tenkely.
ReplyDeleteBe A Merchant Of Hope: Choose either a quote or a story from this chapter that inspires you.
ReplyDeleteDescribe that inspiration and how you will apply it in your own practice.
A quote from this chapter that inspires me is, "Never lose sight of the fact that the most important measure of your success will be how you treat other people." This quote forces me to look at success beyond grades and accomplishments. It reminds me that the most important measures is how we make others feel. Students will never forget how their teachers made them feel. I know I remember how my teachers made me feel, especially the teachers said or did things that made me feel disrespected or unvalued. Therefore, it is important to remember that it is important to treat students with respect, kindness, and empathy. It is our job to create spaces where students feel safe, valued, and supported. I plan to continue applying this to my practice by building positive relationships with my students. I will take time to listen, support, and care for all the needs that they bring. I will not lose sight on the importance of treating others well, which will help me build positive relationships and become a source of encouragement for all, especially the students I serve.
I will remind myself everyday that my interactions with students are important. This will help me remember to take the time to truly listen and communicate words that I care about what they are sharing with me so they feel heard and supported. I want my students to know I care and support them beyond the classroom.
The story that resonated with me was the story about Benton. As a teacher of Special Education students, I often worked with those who were somewhat lost or left out. I made it my goal to know their names and some personal information about them. I also feel that using a person's name is very powerful. To acknowledge someone generically is one thing but to acknowledge them personally using their name is quite different. I am often approached by former students and it always breaks my heart if I am unable to recall their name. I see the difference it makes in their faces when I use their name. I feel the same when someone recalls my name in those situations, as well. Student's must know they are important to us and to the world if they are to meet the expectations given to them.
ReplyDelete