In Students’ Own Words: Appreciation for KSDS Teachers

By Dr. Robyn Blum, Principal, K-8

KSDS students and teachers are amazing! Earlier this month, in the spirit of gratitude and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, I asked our students to share examples of what they appreciate in their teachers. The responses poured in, and the speed, volume and thoughtfulness of the students’ reflections about their teachers show our students’ good hearts and values and also provide us with a profile of what makes a KSDS teacher so special.

Several themes emerged from students’ responses, and I share them here:

I appreciate my KSDS teachers because they show me personal connection and support.

Students praised teachers for getting to know them as individuals and appreciating the personal strengths and challenges that each student brings to the classroom. Students deeply valued teachers for noticing and responding to individual needs.

“If I was having trouble with something, she would go out of her way to help me.”
My teacher “was always there for me if I was down or just not in a good mood.”
My teacher lets me “keep a special project in her desk so I can continue my progress whenever I have time.”
My teacher “understands that different people go at different paces.”
“I really appreciate her positivity, great teaching skills, and kindness, connection, and friendship to her students.”

I appreciate my KSDS teachers because they demonstrate patience and kindness.

Students noticed that their teachers make the classroom a space comfortable for taking risks and making mistakes, and specifically appreciated teachers for giving students that freedom to learn from trying and trying again, without ever feeling judged.

My teacher “always tries her hardest to make sure everyone understands her lessons.”
My teacher “understands how I communicate since I am quiet.”
My teacher “always helps me when I need help, and she is kind even when I mess up.”
My teacher “is nice, caring and helpful.”
I appreciate my teacher because “he is kind.”

I appreciate my KSDS teachers because they make learning engaging and fun.

Students listed special projects, creative activities and games as ways they love that their teachers help add fun and variety to their lessons. More than just having fun, they were able to explain that these activities help them learn more and connect more to what they learn, and they appreciate the time and creativity their teachers give to make those activities happen.

My teacher “always knows how to make every lesson interactive, fun, and engaging. I always look forward to going to her classes because I know I will enjoy them, learn something new, and have a good time.”
I appreciate that my teacher focuses on “making the lessons fun, but still keeping them on track.”
My teacher “taught me so much.”

I appreciate my KSDS teachers because they are so encouraging.

Students love the many opportunities their teachers take to give them personalized feedback, appreciation or attention. The deep relationship and connection between KSDS students and their teachers comes shining through as the students express their increased confidence and inspiration to try to do their best because they know their teachers are cheering them on!

My teachers “are helping me learn more things and making my brain smarter.”
I appreciate that my teacher “always explains everything in a response that would make sense for our age group.”
I appreciate my teacher who sends home “motivational handwritten notes that have helped to encourage” students and make them feel like they “can do anything!”

Ultimately, the overarching message from the KSDS students was:

I appreciate my KSDS teachers because they work so hard and are so dedicated to students and to KSDS.

“I can’t pick just one teacher to appreciate! I love every single teacher I have had!!”

We know that all parents join us in seconding these statements, and offering our gratitude to every KSDS teacher for all they do every single day to help our children grow and thrive.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!