Change vs Growth in the Classroom by

Teachers are change agents!

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 00:23:40 UTC

We have the power to make change happen within our schools! We can cultivate a culture of empowerment and growth by allowing students to take charge in their learning.

Reacting to change...easing in

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 00:23:40 UTC

The first step in making changes in the classroom is building relationships with students. Our students need to be able to trust that their teachers have their best interests at heart, and we will be there every step of the way. Change can be scary, but it doesn't have to be. "[Culture in the classroom] all starts by creating an environment where people feel cared for, supported, and nurtured-the very things we know that impact learning in the classroom" (George Couros, page 79, The Innovator's Mindset).

Where to begin? Start Small

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 00:43:08 UTC

As George Couros states, "As leaders and innovators, it can be easy to want to rush into change before we've taken the time to really explore what change could and should look like" (page 86, The Innovator's Mindset). Changing the mindset in the classroom to a growth mindset while empowering students to explore their passions and interests takes time. As educators, we need to think about the implications of making change, and be intentional with our approach. Our students need to feel supported while they are being challenged.

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 01:10:01 UTC

Change happens without effort; we get older, interests change...growth is intentional. It starts with the mindset that we are always evolving and changing. Even with a fixed mindset, my students will change. But, they will not grow.

Change resistance

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 01:18:45 UTC

"One of the biggest roadblocks to addressing instructional rigor in schools is the resistance to change that is displayed by teachers, students, parents, and other building and district leaders. Every person deals differently with change. Some are more accepting, others more resistant. No change is successful if the people being asked to change don't see its need." This is incredibly powerful. To make the shift in innovation as well as growth mindset, clear expectations and objectives should be set to insure understanding of why change is important. This is important for all members of the learning community.

Growth is change. Change isn't always growth

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 01:36:04 UTC

Growth and change are two sides of a coin...both will always exist. And, while students and educators change over time, growth is the intentionality to meet potential and rise above what is our "ordinary".

How can educators embrace growth?

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 01:39:38 UTC

I feel the most important aspects of embracing growth are to practice reflective practices and to take an active role in professional development. Reflecting on day-to-day practices in the classroom allows us to make changes and/or corrections to our practices. Being active in professional development means seeking opportunities that benefit our vision within our classrooms.

Change for Learners vs Growth

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 01:42:28 UTC

Change for learners looks typical. They will physically and developmentally change throughout the school year. They may change friendships, interests, or even personalities.

Growth looks different. It is embracing passions and interests in the classroom beyond the surface. Growth allows students to develop deeper understandings of content areas and educational lessons. Growth allows students to take charge in their learning, ownership of their learning, and get excited to learn and expand their curiosity.

Change for Educators vs Growth

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 01:45:26 UTC

Educators change lesson plans through the year to accommodate new standards within the district. They may modify lessons and scaffold them bak for students.

Educators that grow in their field have a deeper meaning of what their students need to thrive in the classroom. They are open to feedback and willing to make changes in their day-to-day instruction to empower learners to seek out learning opportunities for themselves. Rather than dictating classroom rules and expectations, they build a community in their classroom where all voices are heard and valued.

ericaburkitt — 2025-06-14 01:49:47 UTC

Growth is different. It is individualized. And everyone grows differently. When considering growth, it is important to look at learners or educators as a whole. What is their end goal? Have they developed their "why"? Sometimes, growth is self advocacy; students that previously struggled to share their wants and needs can do so with ease. And that is acceptable. All growth is acceptable.