Cassidy Janzen

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Reflective Journal 2

Safe classroom spaces are critical to establish in the learning environment. I believe that
safety is a number one priority in the classroom, and it is fundamental for students’ growth.
To me, a safe classroom means fostering an environment free of discrimination based on
race, gender, sexuality, and religion. Students may face numerous challenges at school, from
not understanding class concepts, to friendship issues, or dealing with problems at home. I
want my classroom to be a home for students where they know they are supported and
encouraged by their peers and me.

A safe learning environment starts with establishing expectations for the class as a
community. At the beginning of the school year, I will intentionally set aside time to
collectively create our classroom expectations, and get students involved in how they want
their classroom to look. Instead of creating rules for the classroom, expectations keep the
students accountable for their actions. For example, the expectation of “fostering a safe and
respectful environment” will be discussed with the students. I will ask them what they think
that looks like, and their responses may be something like “being kind to one another” and
“not judging someone based on how they look”. A safe and respectful environment would
also emphasize empathy and the importance of grace when a student’s peer is having a rough
day. If I can create these discussions with my class, I think it will generate a community of
students that care about one another, making it a better learning environment for all.

Another way I can create a safe classroom environment is to build positive relationships
between all students. I will address this by incorporating lots of group work and seating plans
that give students opportunities to form relationships with their peers outside of their friend
group or clique. Additionally, I will foster positive teacher-student relationships by providing
support and encouragement. By taking an interest in my students' lives and getting to know
their hobbies and outside of school activities, I hope to develop a relationship with each of
my students that makes them feel comfortable coming to me whenever they have a problem,
or they want to share their success. I will also make sure to acknowledge times that I am
struggling and need help, so they know that it is always okay to ask for help. Lastly, I would
also like to regularly incorporate an exit slip activity in my class that promotes student
wellness and gives students a chance to reflect on their day. This exit slip would serve as an
opportunity for students to let me know if they found the day challenging or if there is
something I can do to make tomorrow better for them.

I think one of my own areas of growth is being intentional and considerate about what
students may be facing outside of school and acknowledging that everyone has diverse
experiences and needs. One of my blindspots associated with diversity is not being as
educated on gender inclusivity as I am with my own understanding of race, as a person of
color. I hope to attend more sessions and educate myself more on how to incorporate safe
 Cassidy Janzen
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spaces for students that identify as being LGBTQ+ and use more gender inclusive language
in the classroom. I would like to intentionally create a community of students where
inclusivity is an expectation that all students support.