How Brain Science is Enhancing Student Learning

District 303 educators are embracing new brain research that suggests that caring teachers can alter a student’s brain chemistry for the better. Gifted Coordinator Yvette Stahl cites one study that showed students may respond more favorably to stressful situations when in the presence of a trusted adult. 

“The results were clear, and they weren’t behavioral in nature- they were biochemical. Those children who had an established caring adult in the room with them did not have any of the stress hormone release,” said Stahl. 

The research is reinforcing for educators the value of building relationships to improve classroom learning. 

For Jackie Balster, AT Math Teacher at Ferson Creek, it means thinking about “how I can best support them and create a caring environment where they can really thrive.”

East Science Teacher Ben Provencher adds it’s important to be open with students about the “why” of this work.

“You don’t have to hide the punchline,” he said. “I think it’s important that we are transparent and make kids feel comfortable.”