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Today’s educators face challenges unparalleled by previous generations of teachers. A typical classroom is comprised of students from diverse backgrounds, varying languages and unique backgrounds. In order for educators to meet the needs of the individual students within their classes, they must have a grasp on the challenges facing their students.

Currently in education, the focus is on marginalized students and the impact their circumstances have on their ability to learn. This book is designed to make the various hardships encountered by many students more personal in order to give teachers insight into the very real needs of today’s students. Educators are familiar with the data regarding students; however, it is through the individual story of students that teachers are reminded of their vital role in nurturing and educating the students that fill their desks each year. This book will pair student narratives with brain research to provide valuable insights to K-12 educators and university professors.

Reviews

In a climate of high-stakes testing, public policy debates, and funding shortages, this book is a much needed breath of fresh air. In a passionate attempt to draw our attention back to the needs of children traumatized in a stressful world, the authors make a passionate case that schools can transform lives when we work together. Childhood trauma will probably not go away, but this book helps schools address its challenge more strategically.
— Anthony Muhammad, PhD, author and educational consultant

A useful resource for educators, especially those serving undocumented immigrant children. Understanding how to support students under stress as allies and advocates is essential if educators are to build trust and make a difference.
— Pedro Noguera Ph.D, Distinguished Professor of Education, faculty director, Center for the Transformation of Schools, UCLA Graduate School of Education & Information Studies

Virtually every student will have to deal with difficulties and emotional stress during their school years. These struggles adversely affect children’s ability to learn, and educators must be equipped to recognize and mitigate these impacts. This book serves as an excellent guide for educators to many of the circumstances students face daily and is highly recommended for teams working to build their capacity for this critical work.
— Scott Siegel, superintendent, Ceres Unified School District

Reading this insightful book provided answers to mysteries I struggled desperately to solve when working as a teacher, counselor and educational leader. Filled with the voices of the children we seek to serve, Hear My Voice engages the reader in critical consciousness, challenging us to engage in cognitive empathy, to reflect on the sources of our deficit thinking and to develop the research and equity-based, humanizing strategies essential to reaching and teaching ALL children.
— Debra Bukko, EdD, associate professor, Advanced Studies in Education; director of the Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership

If public education aims to successfully transition from the assembly line "one size fits all" style of learning to providing our students with meaningful 21st century skills, it is imperative educators be prepared to address the social-emotional needs our diverse students bring to the table. As I enter my 17th year of teaching in a local public high school, I can attest this book effectively articulates the knowledge, skills, awareness and cultural competencies needed to truly educate the whole child.
— Lindsey Bird, 2015 Carlston Family Foundation Outstanding Teacher of America & California Teach Plus Education Policy Alumna