The next educational trend we really need

In education, there are trends that catch on and spread like wildfire. The two that I hear about the most are grit and a growth mindset. 

For me, fads, trends and buzz words will come and go, but what never gets old is a deep respect, honoring + encouraging support for all kinds of minds no matter if they fit the narrowly defined box desired by schools or not. There is such an emphasis on changing the child, but we must not forget that we need to change the conditions of education so that each child can thrive and find areas where they shine. Every child I have worked with has shown me the areas where they shine, though many of their gifts go completely unrecognized and un-nurtured in their day to day school setting. Instead the emphasis is placed on how they can't remember their math facts or can't read at grade level or can't tolerate sitting still for hours on end, and then they are encouraged to "keep trying harder." Imagine how it feels to be on the receiving end of that.

The way we view and support kids needs to evolve. Some children may never commit math facts to memory or read at grade level or sit still in a class that is boring to them and that's okay. Likely fulfilling their unique potential and sharing their gifts with the world will not hinge on those things or if they do, they can use tech/work-arounds/get support from those around them.

My hope is that the timeless wisdom of holding deep respect, honor and providing encouraging support for every single child's mind is the next trend that catches on like wildfire.