Some sketches of students going about their day. Students, their interactions and conversations, are what really make schools seem alive.

When engaged, students work diligently. The drawing to the left was inspired by a student who needed help with reading, but did amazing art projects that showed his learning. This shows the importance of UDL, recognizing that everyone has different strengths and students should be allowed to show their learning however they can.

The next drawing on the right is inspired by the responsible way that most of the students use their cell phones, either between learning or during breaks. The students navigate the different class policies of multiple teachers, and generally do a great job of remembering who allows what and where.

Frustration with learning is another common occurrence in the classroom. The student who inspired the following drawing placed the book on her face and said “I’m learning by diffusion. It’s a science experiment.” Although the teacher pointed out to her that the class was English, I thought this was adorable and showed that she understood the concept of diffusion. This was one of the instances where it struck

 

me that courses should be less separated. It would be better if students were credited with the learning they have done no matter where it appears.

The bottom drawing was inspired near the end of the day, as I noticed students leaving in groups of two or more, and that they usually travel this way throughout the day. Even during COVID, they find ways of being together. I also thought about how this social aspect keeps them protected in the school and in the wider world. We all need other people who we can depend on.