The Stories That Shape Us

The last week and a half has been packed with inspiration. Energy has come from watching Katie Ledecky claim her ninth gold medal, Noah Lyles crush the 100-meter dash, Colleen Hoover, best-selling author of It Ends With Us, and Steven Spielberg do amazing things with the production of "Twisters”, Simon Biles do outstanding work in gymnastics to witnessing both of my boys dive into entrepreneurship. While watching these people in action today is impressive, the true richness of each person emerges when their backstory is understood.

Lately, I have been thinking about the experiences and individual stories that shape us. Understanding these narratives is significant, especially in the classroom, where recognizing the unique strengths and challenges of each student can transform their educational journey.

Listening to the stories of others is beneficial. When you know the backstory of Simone Biles for example, it is so much more rewarding to see her come back to the Olympics with strategies, a glow of being at peace, and an unshaken confidence. Biles has pure joy on her face as she says she’s here because she wants to be.

Katie Ledecky’s recent victory in the 800m freestyle, earning her fourteenth Olympic medal and ninth gold, has given her the status of the most decorated U.S. female athlete in Olympic history. My husband’s comment, “Wow, she and her parents have spent so much time in pools,” is a reminder of the immense time and effort people spend doing things that they love. Katie’s story is a testament to dedication paying off.

This week we also watched the movie "Twisters”, a sequel to the film from almost 30 years ago. It is empowering to see how the protagonist’s backstory, shaped by a personal tragedy, fuels her commitment to helping those affected by tornadoes. It’s powerful to see how a devastating event can help someone find purpose. Stories like these, whether of athletes or everyday heroes, highlight the importance of understanding the personal narratives that drive people. Creating an environment in the classroom that values these narratives can make all the difference. This week I have been thinking about all of the backstories and histories that I don’t know when a group of 30 people sit down for an hour. 

It’s about seeing each student not just as a learner but as an individual with a unique collection of stories. 

This realization hit home during a visit to the Apple Store. We were looking for a MacBook for my son, who’s heading to college soon. The sales rep asked, “Who’s the student?” While it might have seemed obvious, it was refreshing to be reminded that anyone could be pursuing education at any stage of life. It made me reflect on my learning journey and the excitement I have for learning and the new school year. 

Learning looks different in various environments and is not confined to the classroom. I think about my TEC students who can take apart an engine or those who teach themselves to code in their free time. Recently, I've had the privilege of watching my two teenage sons succeed in running an online business. They spend time inventorying and selling cards as well as golf balls  online showing a level of dedication and initiative that’s impressive. Watching their excitement and success made me realize how many students have fascinating stories and talents that often go unnoticed.

Currently, I’m reading  "EduProtocol Field Guide ELA Edition" by Jacob Carr. Beyond the practical classroom strategies, I was struck by the personal stories Jacob shared. These narratives add a rich layer of context and relatability, reinforcing the idea that our experiences shape who we are and how we teach. The book has so many tremendous read- to-use activities. 

One way I plan to connect with my students this year is by engaging in conversations about  their favorite Olympic sports. For instance, they can open up discussions about their passions and experiences. Even if they don’t watch the Olympics, the conversation can still be meaningful and often lead to learning something new about them. 

Listening to the backstories of athletes also offers valuable insights. Best-selling author Colleen Hoover, in her book "It Ends With Us," shares an author’s note revealing that much of the story is based on her mother’s experiences with domestic violence. This vulnerability brings awareness to important issues and shows the power of personal narratives.

Similarly, Noah Lyles, an Olympic sprinter, won the 100m dash by the closest margin. Photos and stories later revealed his struggles with ADHD, asthma, anxiety, dyslexia, and depression. These behind-the-scenes glimpses remind us that everyone is fighting a battle, and it is possible to use stories like Noah’s to inspire students who also struggle. 

Building your impossible as a teacher relies on understanding the stories that shape us and the people around us. Whether it’s the dedication of an Olympian, the personal journey of a movie protagonist, or the entrepreneurial spirit of a teenager, these narratives matter. As educators, recognizing and valuing the unique stories of our students can create a classroom environment where every individual feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. As we invest in understanding and celebrating the personal narratives that make each student extraordinary, we create an amazing culture.