01/13/2026
I have a story to share that brings me close to tears.
Today after my tutoring session, I reflected back on a moment that surprised me in the best way possible.
When my first student hopped on Zoom today, (before I could say anything), she said “Hi Bailey, let’s get reading!” with a big magnifying glass covering one eye🔍👁️
I giggled and was a bit taken aback that this student who I didn’t know just a few months ago now feels safe enough be goofy with me! It warms my heart that I’m able to truly connect with my students and provide a space that they can be themselves, not afraid to be silly or make mistakes. To hear this student go from “I don’t like reading” to “let’s get reading” makes me so grateful and proud.
The brain learns (& rewires) through making mistakes. This is why creating a safe space for students to learn is a huge value I hold myself to at the Hafferman Learning Center!