An Introspective on Creative and Culturally Responsive Education

Abstract

I never wanted to become a teacher. Even now, I resist the label. I prefer the idea of a guide. A teacher is a person who instructs; a guide is a person who travels with…One of the primary reasons why I refrained from an undergraduate degree in education was that the content seemed scattered and illogical. I argued: “Instead of hiring someone who has a little experience in every subject, why not hire someone who has expertise and passion in one specific subject? If you need a reading teacher, why not hire someone who cares about English enough to pursue a college degree in the subject?” I still believe the latter portion of the argument to an extent; a great reading teacher needs to care a great deal about English. However, after teaching in a number of different educational settings, including a charter school, my views on what it takes to be a great educator have evolved. This chapter is focused on my experiences in education and growth as an educator, poet, writer, and advocate for youth.