Paul Hazelton: Refugees students are a gift to this entire classroom
As a fourth grade teacher in the Central Valley, one of the most important aspects of my job is to cultivate a classroom environment where diversity is celebrated and every student is welcome. I view the classroom as a place where people of different backgrounds can come together, share ideas and grow.
This year, one of my students is a refugee. They have brightened my classroom with an eagerness to learn, a curiosity for knowledge and an endless amount of perseverance. These are qualities I wish all of my students could share.
Their impact on my entire class has been transformational. It is a joy for me to watch the level of acceptance for diversity among all of my students.
I firmly believe my refuge student has taught me how to be a better, more patient and compassionate educator. They are a gift to my classroom and to the larger Turlock community.
I have worked tirelessly to welcome my refugee students into my classroom and prepare them with the best resources for success. I look forward to their bright future ahead. It is my hope the larger community reciprocates the same level of love and acceptance.
Paul Hazelton, Turlock
This story was originally published December 20, 2016 at 6:52 PM with the headline "Paul Hazelton: Refugees students are a gift to this entire classroom."