Amelia Holder
Teacher
Lew Wallace
At Lew Wallace School, we are dedicated to understanding and addressing the individual needs of each student, recognizing that every challenge they face is an opportunity for us to provide support and encouragement. Miss Holder, one of our passionate educators, exemplifies our commitment to this approach through her intuitive and caring methods of student engagement.
One poignant example involves a young boy who initially appeared to have behavioral issues. However, after he shared the complexities of his home life with Miss Holder, it became clear that his behavioral issues were a reflection of deeper struggles. This revelation shifted her perspective and approach, highlighting the importance of understanding each student's background and challenges.
Miss Holder is committed to inclusivity and rejects isolating students as a method of discipline. Instead, she creates special spaces within the classroom that both celebrate individuality and maintain a connection with the community. For instance, she transformed a desk with LED lights and motivational messages like "inhale, you're capable, you're caring," placing it near her own desk. This not only gives the student a sense of belonging but also allows Miss Holder to closely monitor and provide encouragement, ensuring the student feels supported and valued.
This approach is central to our philosophy at Lew Wallace, where we don't just teach academics—we nurture hearts and minds, proving what’s possible when educators go beyond traditional methods to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
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