Teacher empowers students by offering choices in classroom learning

Back in school, many students encounter authority figures who emphasize the importance of responsibility for their future. This theme is echoed in Operation Ivy's song "Gonna Find You," highlighting how authority is often represented by teachers and administrators. As teenagers grow, they seek to assert their own authority.

An educator teaching U.S. history in an urban St. Louis school shares a similar perspective. Identifying as a "punk," this teacher believes that authority should not be followed blindly and highlights historical examples where challenging authority led to significant changes, such as the American Revolution and Civil Rights Movement.

Balancing these beliefs with classroom management presents a challenge. The educator notes that while classroom rules are necessary for creating a safe learning environment, they can sometimes feel authoritarian. A survey revealed that students felt the teacher was too authoritative regarding rules and behavior management.

Reflecting on this feedback, the teacher realized that classroom rules are meant to ensure safety and openness for discussion, whereas authority involves control over lessons and activities. Recalling personal experiences from fifth grade reinforced the idea that students should understand why they learn certain things.

In response, the educator decided to give students more choice in how they demonstrate understanding of standards and concepts. By allowing different mediums for expression—such as political cartoons or presentations—students gained autonomy over their learning process.

The teacher acknowledges ongoing struggles with relinquishing control but emphasizes the importance of respecting student autonomy and questioning traditional notions of authority. As punk legend Henry Rollins said, “Questioning anything and everything, to me, is punk rock.”