Build Your Team

Every fall I find myself reflecting on Sebastian Junger’s book Tribe. His book explores the idea that humans have found a sense of purpose and belonging within communities for thousands of years. He shares stories about colonists choosing to abandon settlements to live with Native Americans. Junger explores the sense of tribe among the armed forces, the camaraderie of fishermen who face a maritime disaster, and the unity that swept across our country after 9/11. The overarching theme of the book is that humans are tribal people.

Each year, teachers get to build a tribe with a new set of students. Children are special and valued simply because they exist. Teachers build their tribes with class themes, morning meetings, academic celebrations, and more. We work tirelessly to get to know every student’s personal interests and their family dynamics. We take time to notice new shoes, missing teeth, and haircuts. Little life milestones are celebrated along with academic gains.

In a world that seems divisive, teachers are still on the front lines, investing in students. A common theme of “Welcome—you belong, and I am so glad you are here!” is a gift that a teacher gives to students. What teachers do daily is bigger than any curriculum, or paycheck, or new initiative. Teachers build tribes.