Schools often act as a child’s second home, and as such, the educational staff in the school take on different roles such as parental figures because teachers care. Just as parents want their child to feel comfortable at home, it is just as important for a child to feel comfortable in school. Teachers work hard to make sure students feel valued and work diligently to teach empathy in schools. Empathy is simply being aware of others thoughts and feelings. So how, and why, should we apply this in schools?

Why We Should Apply Empathy in Schools

Maslow’s Expanded Hierarchy of Needs suggests learning (cognitive needs) cannot occur without first having our physical needs met. Maslow calls these "Basic Needs" such as food, water, shelter rest, safety, and security stems from a child's home environment. When we think of schools and how teachers can empathize with families, it is an ongoing up hill struggles to improve educational outcomes because doing this ignores the single greatest driver of student achievement which is household income. In the United States we have a flawed foundation and poverty being the sole function of capitalism. Our current system makes it severely difficult for minorities to build wealth and labels like "at risk" further hinder opportunities in schools. With so many barriers and policies even the best schools struggle with supporting minority students, but it has been done. Studies show that when children have empathy, they tend to have more classroom engagement, higher academic achievement, and better communication skills. Neuroscience also shows that stressful or negative classroom associations hinder learning. Empathy is a critical skill for surviving and thriving in both academic environments and the real world. And yet, when school is in full-swing, often empathy goes on the back-burner in favor of lesson plans, grading, and meetings.

How to Build Empathy in Schools

Focus on exclusivity and empathy would greatly benefit not just the classroom environment but also the students’ well-being and the school overall. Students should be treated as co-learners. By focusing on students’ assets and giving students respect and empathy, teachers can foster a better learning environment.Teachers and administrators should attempt to see school through the students’ eyes and listen to their needs. They would then be able to see why some students may struggle more than others. Instead of labeling, teachers should work to understand situations by building trust. Teachers can add mini empathy lessons in their reading block, use classroom experiences as a teachable moment, and show how empathy shows up in math. Allowing for understandings could be empowering and teacher-student relationships would be strengthened.

Should teachers also be aware of non-verbal cues and body language? Yes, for example, if a student starts slouching and refuses to answer when called on, the teacher should, when convenient, pull the student aside and ask if they are okay and make sure the student knows they’re empathetic and will help if they can.Empathy in every situation should seek to help the student and work to consider circumstances while working hard not embarrass them. Small things, like (While walking around the classroom during a read-aloud I tap on Johnny's shoulder to let him know that he will be called on next to answer the next question) this gives him time to prepare, it is not a cold call, and if provides scaffolding for students that need help in specific areas plus it's a small win for the teacher to build trust with Johnny. Empathy actions will vary based on student age and the relationship between them and the teacher. It can also depend on the severity of the situation. Being empathetic towards students will create a positive learning environment. It will also teach students empathy, which will lead to a more empathetic culture as students grow and take their places in the world.