The Human Side of Teaching: The Importance of Identity and Impact

Every student grows differently. Just like every plant.

🌻 SUNFLOWER STUDENTS

Behavior: Energetic, expressive, attention-seeking.
Need: Encouragement, visibility, and consistent feedback.
Action Steps:

  1. Affirm publicly — celebrate effort and growth in front of peers.

  2. Give them the mic — let them present, share, or demonstrate what they’ve learned.

  3. Offer visible progress tools — trackers, charts, or shoutouts that make growth tangible.

  4. Rotate attention — intentionally engage them without letting them dominate.

  5. Use goal-setting check-ins — channel their energy into measurable focus points.

🌵 CACTUS STUDENTS

Behavior: Quiet, independent, self-reliant.
Need: Space, trust, and occasional check-ins.
Action Steps:

  1. Assign solo tasks or projects — affirm their ability to work independently.

  2. Acknowledge their work privately — a note or short conversation goes far.

  3. Check in without hovering — brief, focused, and respectful of their space.

  4. Give them choices — autonomy increases their investment.

  5. Encourage peer support — pair them strategically with balanced partners.

🌸 ORCHID STUDENTS

Behavior: Sensitive, creative, easily discouraged.
Need: Emotional safety, patience, and gentle guidance.
Action Steps:

  1. Lead with empathy — validate feelings before offering correction.

  2. Provide structured reassurance — clear expectations with consistent tone.

  3. Incorporate creative options — art, writing, or storytelling as outlets.

  4. Avoid public criticism — redirect or correct privately to protect confidence.

  5. Use positive reinforcement — highlight even small wins to build resilience.

🌳 OAK TREE STUDENTS

Behavior: Consistent, dependable, slow to change.
Need: Time, structure, and long-term investment.
Action Steps:

  1. Give leadership opportunities — class roles or mentorship builds confidence.

  2. Track growth over time — show them their steady progress visually or verbally.

  3. Challenge them gradually — increase rigor slowly to build mastery.

  4. Recognize reliability — express gratitude for consistency and follow-through.

  5. Encourage mentorship — have them guide younger or newer students.

This was brought to you together with Miami Dade College, Kendall Campus and Miami GEAR UP. If you would like more information, contact the Miami GEAR UP Program Coordinator, at Miami Southridge Senior High School, Steven Peruyero, by email at speruye2@mdc.edu.

Thank you Miami Southridge Senior High School, faculty and staff, for your visionary leadership and your commitment to excellence.