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Reflecting on Another Year as an Educational Assistant: Learning from High School Students Shaina Tranquilino June 26, 2024

As another school year draws to a close, I find myself in a reflective mood, thinking back on my first year as an educational assistant at a bustling high school. It's been a whirlwind of experiences, challenges, and most importantly, learning opportunities. From navigating the intricacies of the educational system to building relationships with students and staff alike, this year has been incredibly enriching.

One of the most striking aspects of my role has been the opportunity to learn from the students themselves. While my job primarily revolves around supporting their learning and development, it's remarkable how much they have taught me in return. Here are a few lessons that high school students have imparted to me over the course of this academic year:

1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: High school can be a tumultuous time, filled with academic pressures, social challenges, and personal growth. Yet, despite facing these hurdles, many students display remarkable resilience. They've taught me that setbacks are a part of life, but what truly matters is how we bounce back and keep moving forward.

2. Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: Today's high school classrooms are diverse, encompassing students from various cultural, socioeconomic, and ethnic backgrounds. Interacting with such a diverse group has broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of inclusivity. Students have shown me the power of empathy, acceptance, and celebrating differences.

3. Harnessing Technology with Ease: In the digital age, teenagers are often more adept at navigating technology than many adults. From coding to creating multimedia presentations, students have taught me innovative ways to integrate technology into education effectively. Their fluency with digital tools is not just impressive but also inspiring.

4. Passion for Learning Beyond the Curriculum: While academic subjects are crucial, high school students are also passionate about exploring interests beyond the classroom. Whether it's pursuing hobbies, participating in extracurricular activities, or engaging in community service, they've reminded me that true education extends far beyond textbooks.

5. Authenticity and Honesty: Teenagers are refreshingly candid in their expressions and interactions. They haven't yet mastered the art of pretense that adults sometimes adopt. Their honesty and authenticity serve as a reminder to stay genuine in all my interactions, fostering trust and meaningful connections.

6. Optimism and Hope for the Future: Despite the challenges they face, many high school students exude optimism about their future and the world around them. Their idealism is contagious and serves as a powerful motivator to continue supporting and nurturing their dreams.

As I prepare for graduation ceremonies and the upcoming summer break, I'm grateful for the privilege of working alongside such inspiring young individuals. Each day spent in the classroom has been a learning experience, not just for the students, but for me as well. I look forward to carrying these lessons forward as I continue to grow in my role as an educational assistant.

Being an educational assistant isn't just about imparting knowledge; it's about cultivating a deeper understanding of oneself and others. High school students have an incredible capacity to teach, and I am honoured to have learned alongside them this year. Here's to many more years of growth, learning, and making a difference in the lives of students.