Thoughts From A Visiting Teacher: UConn Student Teachers

By Frank Anile-Santiago & Holly Mason

We are Frank and Holly and we are pre-service teachers from the University of Connecticut that are working towards our Master's degrees in Curriculum and Instruction in our concentration area of secondary social studies. We are studying abroad in London for this semester and will be visiting multiple schools. Recently we had the opportunity to visit Westminster Academy for a week. What did we do during our visit?

During our time here, we observed several classes in history and geography. All of these courses ranged from Y7 to Y13 and covered topics ranging from public health, to Nazi resistance, to South African history. We also participated in meetings after school where teachers exhibited their commitment to continued growth. A PLC met to discuss student-led learning in a workshop which gave teachers the chance to work together to generate ideas to engage students in scenarios where they design their own paths in the classroom. We also observed a Humanities department meeting where the use of different grading methods and the many applications of data were discussed. In addition, one teacher led a presentation on trauma-informed practices. Earlier in the week, a group of teachers visited another school that is further along in the process of incorporating trauma-informed practices. They reported back on steps and tools this other school was using in order to inform and discuss the potential of them at WA. The presentation included both school-wide initiatives that could be implemented and a discussion of the myths of trauma-informed practices. On our last day at WA, we accompanied a group of students to Hyde Park for Holocaust Memorial Day. The Association of Jewish Refugees held a ceremony for their 80 Trees for 80 Years Campaign as it has been 80 years since their founding. Students got to experience the stories of members of AJR and a representative of the Queen. One Y12 student from WA also spoke at the ceremony and students participated in the planting of the tree. What did we learn from our visit?

After spending a few days at Westminster Academy, we were amazed at how the school culture is embedded in every aspect of the school. From the Senior Leadership Team to the student body, the values of thinking, knowledge, caring, open-mindedness, and reflection are fully present in the corridors and classrooms. Diversity is another key highlight of the school both in the population of the school itself, but also within the curriculum through imperative topics that connect to students’ identities and experiences. After engaging in productive conversation with a plethora of teachers and students, it is clear that all are valued and welcomed within WA which we think is the perfect blend of American and British values. Thank you for having us!