Comprehension, Communication and Choice.

   I've often heard it said through the years that reading unlocks doors, opens up new worlds and worlds of opportunity, and other expressions like these.  It's interesting, however, that for so many children, reading itself must first be accessed.  For the students in the case studies we read about, they thankfully had parents who intervened when this was not happening.  It's a reminder to me that I must be committed to staying in communication with my parents and doing everything I can to create an atmosphere where they are comfortable approaching me as well.  A child's education is truly most successful when it is a complete triad of effort: the student, the teacher, and the parents. Everyone involved has a unique and invaluable vantage point, and understanding this with appreciation and humility can clear the way for the child to succeed while catching potential problems early.
   
   For the student, critical keys are freedom to choose and pursue areas of interest while having the tools to understand and process what they are reading.  Teachers are pivotal in assuring that both of these are made available to the students.  Being aware, in touch, and willing to listen, though requiring extra effort and energy, guarantee students have the opportunity to thrive.  Moreover, this communicates to a child that his teacher cares, not just about his getting good grades or test scores, but about him, and that his interests and needs matter.  Students who know they are cared for want to try for that teacher and for themselves.  This type of caring strengthens not just reading skills, but the student's confidence and self-esteem, which has far-reaching effects beyond the classroom.