That is what "they" want you to think... Until you educate yourself enough to know that there are more complex dynamics surrounding the issue. That is when change happens.

Whenever you focus on "home" you are able to advocate for change. It needs to be directly related to our students' lives in order for them to recognize how they are the ones who are the experts.

This is why it is so important to apply critical literacy skills and realize who is telling the story. Outside perspectives are just that, outside perspectives. It is only fair to listen to stories told by the true experts, the ones who live it, not the ones who learn about it.

They are the experts and should be named as such! What a powerful way to invite students to contribute.

After reading this article I wonder about how I can change the narrative in the school I work in. It would be beneficial for teachers to attend a PD about unlearning these stereotypes and reminding them that it lives all year around, not just during November.

Sadly, this is an eye opener for many students. The idea of being a "person of the present day".

Just by implementing this in itself demonstrates the importance of Native people. I know far too many teachers who take out their "Native books" during November and then put them right back in their "Thanksgiving Activities" box.

Another big issue in many aspects. This is why it is so important to pay attention to who is telling the story.

1. Whose story is this?
2. Who benefits from this story?
3. Whose voices are not being heard? These three questions can be transferred to almost anything in literature or in the media. It is important to be constantly aware of what we are reading and watching in order to challenge the narratives being taught and presented. If we do not pay attention and apply these skills, we are vulnerable to believing whatever is being taught.

Such a powerful word in any given context, but especially in this one. The idea of learning how to unlearn something that has already been taught.

Culturally relevant texts is a must in all classrooms. Selecting texts that relate to our students lives are critical in creating a space where they feel welcome and vulnerable to share their voice.

It is unfortunate that the students have already lost hope, which can carry on throughout their lives if they are never given a platform where they feel their voices are heard enough to produce change.

Being vulnerable in the classroom is essential.

Demonstrates the importance of knowing your students in order to select texts that fit what you're teaching and what they are interested in.

A great example of something that students can take action on that affects them personally. A few years back my students were upset that our school took away a certain item from their lunch menu. I told them we could write a letter to them and we did, and we got the item back on the menu!!

The power of learning! Once you learn enough about how systems work, you are able to take action.

This explains why addressing trauma in the classroom is not done as often as it should be. It is expected that we do it, but not mandated like Common Core is.

Most teachers come into the profession with the intention of helping students emotionally (and academically). The harsh reality is that we are not always given the tools, time, materials, or resources to address these concerns in the classroom. Especially with all of the other demands put on us. To say that we are not prepared is a bit disappointing.

I have noticed that on the news they usually always use pictures off of social media for black victims in comparison to a family or professional photo (school picture) for white victims.

What is a typical American boy?

Which is why it is so important to teach our youth to use their critical thinking skills and do their own research. That way, they can come up with their own opinions by taking other perspectives into consideration.

This reminds me of Dutro's idea of Witness and Critical Witness. We are witnesses to our students testimonies, but a critical witness is one who takes action and advocates.

This is the power of literature!! We all share similar experiences with people who we think are different. We just need to dedicate the time to find those similarities.

This demonstrates one of the biggest challenges (in my opinion) as teachers. Every class is different, every year is different, and every student is different. Teaching is not "one size fits all". What works now, may not work in the future. What did not work before, may not work in the future. We are always growing and evolving, as are the students we teach.

I appreciate this so much. It is viewed as "radical" when really it is something that we should have doing all along. It is "radical" because now people are showing the importance of free write, when these students have been doing it behind closed doors all along. It is not "radical" for the people doing it, it is "radical" because we never paid attention to it.

Please check out the book "The Vulnerable Heart of Literacy: Centering Trauma as Powerful Pedagogy" by Elizabeth Dutro. This book gives insight on how to incorporate trauma through our everyday literacy practices.

So powerful! I think this sums up exactly what this whole initiative is about. It does not always have to be for a grade or for data, it is simply for students to be seen as writers.

How can we as educators advocate for more mentors in our schools? How can we implement more opportunities for parent involvement through a systematic approach?

I think this is so important! As teachers we have a habit of saying there is not enough time. The students are already practicing writing in different ways, it is up to us to support what is already being done.

My mind immediately goes to poetry and lyrics! SO many students are blessed with this talent and it never goes noticed in school!

Love this! Reminds me of the Freedom Writers. It is important for us as educators to take in consideration that all writing is writing!! Just because it isn't "academic" does not mean it is not important. It is important for us to highlight and honor all types of writing in the classroom.

This shows the importance in how our opinions as teachers are just that, opinions. Opinions are subjective and can truly harm a students overall academic success. We may view a student a certain way, but we only see part of the student. We do not see them outside of school and if we come up with our own conclusions, we may never even get the chance to allow them to open up. If this student felt comfortable enough to open up, his teachers would have known what he did instead of labeling him according to their opinions.

What a strong way to hook the audience. Such a thought provoking sentence. It is almost upsetting to think that even the students are aware of how they feel that they need to cover up who they truly are. As educators we know that school should be a place of authenticity, yet students are admitting that they can't be themselves.