Testimonials and Reflections

Since I’ve been working in the Hidden Sparks program I confront the challenge of teaching a weak student instead of ‘running away’. I actually feel enthusiastic about helping students find their strengths.

I’m sure you have heard this many times before , but I feel the course so far has really changed me as a teacher in so many ways. I am much more mindful of every student and parent interaction and the level of specificity I am able to use to analyze problems.

Hidden Sparks has changed how I see my students. I’m less frustrated during challenges and more focused on strategies and strengths instead of weaknesses. Dr. Reichman’s classroom observations and our meetings have been incredibly helpful and motivating. I’m grateful Hidden Sparks is in my school.

Hidden Sparks helped me understand that children learn differently based on their strengths and challenges. I now adjust assessments to match their learning styles, which allows students to show what they truly know. I’ve been amazed by how my students succeed when given more effective ways to demonstrate their knowledge according to their learning profile.

I cannot express fully the impact [Hidden Sparks] has had on me and on the work that I do…It was the best thing that happened to my career! The learning has helped me grow as a teacher, and in such, has benefited my students and fellow teachers as well. If I had to pick the thing that had the greatest impact, it would be my work with my mentor.

Hidden Sparks taught me to pause and ask why a child is acting out rather than labeling them as ‘bad.’ When we address the unmet need and demystify both children and parents, students can use their strengths to truly shine.

This experience helped me recharge and get excited about teaching again. I’m leaving with practical instructional strategies and a stronger ability to understand what may be holding a student back rather than labeling them. I’m excited to bring more metacognition into my classroom and share this renewed perspective with colleagues.

The Hidden Sparks training that I received has informed every aspect of my teaching. As much as I thought I was listening to students, working with their strengths, and helping them..now there is a greater joy in teaching because I can figure it out and make a difference, and that’s going to affect my students for years to come.

Hidden Sparks helps bring about a culture of change and growth within schools. Teachers are interested in moving beyond what they’ve always known. Teachers begin to speak in nonjudgmental ways about students and are quicker to use strengths in their description of students. Additionally, teachers are more comfortable discussing students strengths and weaknesses directly with the students.

After working with a Hidden Sparks coach for two years, the Judaic Studies Principal has introduced lessons on social cognition into the entire school’s curriculum.