BLOG #3

The article Study Links Pupils' Stress to School Environments "Classroom learning environments and the Mental Health of 1st Grade Children," http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/03/09/24report-b1.h30.html?tkn=OYTFFHjGqP%2BkOLiTMgh87FOWJMnF%2FQX%2F7Jy2&cmp=clp-edweek , refers to the stresses brought upon first grade students as well as teachers in the classroom setting. It's a vicious cycle. These stresses begin at home for example, in lower income households. These children go to school with the stresses that they face at home and are expected to perform at high levels. Also, given the circumstances in each district, teachers face the burden of struggling to provide supplies for different activities because of the lack of funds. This is a bit of a crutch for any teacher, not allowing them to perform at their highest potential. That stress is reflected onto the students by the teacher's frustrations. The child's behavior is affected and the teacher is put in the position to have to discipline. It is ongoing; what affects the students, affects the teacher, and in turn affects the students again. Something must be done to alleviate these problems. First grade is a very critical year for them and these stresses are showing major effects on their learning as well as social behavioral problems. No matter the race of the child, educators need to be informed of the setting they are providing for the children they are teaching.