The Impact: Student-Centered Practices actually work

Let's talk about how prioritizing student voice transforms classrooms and connects us back to the reason we became educators in the first place —and the tools to make it happen!

"I work for the kids." This has been my guiding principle since I walked—or rather was thrown—into my first classroom five years ago. Sure, my school signs my checks, and yes, they have the power to fire me, AND HAVE LOL (long story, maybe I’ll share it one day). But at the end of the day, I didn’t become a teacher to impress administrators or play the role of the “good teacher” while failing to achieve real results for kids.

I became a teacher to make a difference in the lives of students.

Over time, I’ve realized that the true measure of success isn’t found in test scores or grade books—it’s in the lives we touch, the confidence we build, and the voices we amplify. As educators, our work goes beyond teaching facts. It’s about empowering young people to dream big, take ownership of their learning, and embrace their own potential.

In far too many schools there few spaces where students feel safe enough to dream, to share their opinions, and to be vulnerable. This makes our work not just important, but urgent. We have a responsibility to create spaces where our students' voices are not just heard but celebrated.

Real Voices, Real Impact

To show the power of centering students in education, I asked four of my students how I—and other teachers who prioritize students—have impacted their educational journeys. Their responses left me in tears because they encapsulate the transformative power of putting students first.

• Mikayla: "When teachers support and listen to me, I feel like I can do anything."
  
  Mikayla’s words remind us that when students feel heard and valued, school transforms from an intimidating space into one of possibility. Her perspective underscores the importance of being a teammate to your students, someone they can count on for support and encouragement.

• Verman: "Our voices are our most powerful tool. When teachers encourage us to speak up, they help us change the world."
  
  Verman’s reflection highlights the importance of student advocacy. By encouraging students to use their voices, we empower them to take ownership of their education and their lives. This shift—breaking the silence—is often the catalyst for transformational change.

• Sade: "Having teachers who really see me has changed everything. I’m more confident and excited about my future."
  
  For Sade, feeling seen and valued by her teachers sparked a profound sense of confidence and purpose. Her story illustrates that prioritizing student voice isn’t just about academics; it’s about helping students embrace their full potential and see themselves as capable of achieving greatness.

These responses are why I do what I do. They are why I invest in building relationships and constantly growing my student-centered toolkit. Because this is what happens when we make the choice to put students at the center of our work: we impact lives in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.

Tools to Help You Put Students First

As educators, we all want to create this kind of impact—but it takes intention, tools, and the willingness to do the work. That’s why I created resources like the I'm Just a Teacher Journal and the Student Action Board Curriculum.

The I'm Just a Teacher Journal helps you reflect on your role in building meaningful, student-centered relationships. Through thoughtful prompts and exercises, it challenges you to think deeply about your practice, your expectations, and how you can foster a classroom culture where students thrive.

The Student Action Board Curriculum is a step-by-step guide to helping students take ownership of their education and lead change in their schools. This four-phase process equips students with the tools they need to identify challenges, research solutions, and advocate for meaningful change. It’s about turning their voices into action.

By investing in these resources, you’re not just improving your own practice—you’re transforming your students' lives. Imagine the confidence, leadership, and self-advocacy skills they’ll develop. Imagine the trust, joy, and connection you’ll build with them.

Let’s Build a Brighter Future

When you choose to put students first, you’re choosing to create a legacy that will outlive any test score or report card. You’re choosing to build relationships that empower students to see their own brilliance and embrace their dreams.

If you’re ready to take your student-centered practice to the next level, start today. Explore the I'm Just a Teacher Journal to reflect on your why and how—or dive into the Student Action Board Curriculum to help your students lead the change they want to see.

Because when we truly work for the kids, the possibilities are endless.

Learn More About the I'm Just a Teacher Journal | Explore the Student Action Board Curriculum

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THE STUDENT ACTION BOARD IS YOUR SCHOOL'S CULTURE GAME-CHANGER. 

Imagine a school where students are bold, confident, and fully empowered to take charge of their education and make real change. With the Student Action Board,your students will not just participate—they'll lead, building skills in research, advocacy, and leadership while solving the challenges that matter most to them. This isn't another top-down policy—it's a student-centered revolution that transforms school culture from the ground up. If you're ready to let your students shine and create a school environment where everyone thrives, the Student Action Board is waiting for you!

School leaders purchase the curriculum by Dec 31st we will take 10% off the invoice amount of the program, that is a savings of $499! If you are a teacher and help me get your school leader to say yes by Dec 31st...we will give you 10% off the invoice amount of the program, that is $499 in your pocket this holiday season!

Resources:

• Black on Black Education Documentary: Watch our full origin story on ⁠YouTube.⁠

• Catch up on the Podcast: Check out our OVER 100 episodes taking a dive deep into the transformative power of student voice and student-centered practices in the Black and Brown community.

• FREE Individualized Living Plan: Ready to show up for yourself so you can show up for you students. Develop your ILP with the free ILP guide today.

• Buy ONE OR MANY of Our New Guided Journals: Get your copy for just $12.99 on Amazon. It’s a fantastic tool to help find your way. There is both a ⁠TEACHER⁠ & ⁠STUDENT⁠ version.

• Contact: If you want to learn more about our Student Action Board, email me at ⁠eva@blackonblackeducation.com⁠.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: Follow us ⁠@blackonblacked⁠

• Website: Visit us at ⁠Black on Black Education