Core Value Blog #2

The core values in my life have helped me construct the world view that I utilize today.  Core values play a role in my everyday life, especially when it comes to interacting with people.  Growing up, I never realized how important these teachings would be.  Some of the core values I grew up were RESPECT, COURTESY, and LOVE.
Respect is a core value every tribal culture instills in their people.  The value is very versatile and it can be used in all aspects of life.  One thing about respect is that it can be seen in both a positive and negative manner.  An example of negative respect is fear-- there may be a certain group in a community that people have to respect or they will do something to you.  If a kid grows up around that type of negative respect, that will become the norm.  If a young person does not understand the definition of positive respect, how do you expect him/her to show it?

Courtesy and Love can be combined because they involve people's well being.  As a person, I don't go anywhere where I don't feel comfortable.  In return, I don't like to put anyone in a situation or environment where they don't feel safe or comfortable.  As a teacher it is my duty to make my class as comfortable as I can.  I'm sure the students would like a flat screen TV and couches, but it's still school and they have to learn something.  Another thing I like to do is check in with the students about anything!  I want them to know I am interested in who they are outside of the class.

In my class the tone is set at the very beginning with structure and expectations.  I use the NACA core values as a guide to demonstrate what each one looks like.  I refer back to tribal ceremonies or meetings where tribal officials/elders are present.  Some of the questions I ask the students are:  How would you conduct yourself if you were taking part in a ceremony and someone was talking?  Would you be laughing?  Would you be throwing things?  My goal is to find common ground with the students so that we are on the same page.  As a teacher, I have to conduct myself in a manner where I don't go against my values.  I've learned that students pay close attention to your actions, and they will not hesitate to call you out.
I will continue to integrate traditional, pop cultural, and social examples in my class for the students to understand our communities core values.