Maslow over Mastery - training substitute teachers how to understand this

“Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be.” – Rita Pierson

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a motivational theory that exemplifies what it takes to make certain things happen, and why we have certain needs that take precedence over others (Maslow over Mastery). Education focuses on meeting goals and pushing student growth. What goes on behind the scenes of a child’s day can go unnoticed, leaving the child to feel disappointment and disillusioned with the education system as a whole.

If there are a few children that seem uninterested or often forget a “required” school item, possibly a prior need hasn’t been fulfilled yet. This can be avoided by taking a moment to step back and look at the entire situation. Here are a few things to look out for:

Has the child eaten today?

Do they have shelter and if so, how are their sleeping conditions?

Are they in a safe neighborhood or are they in the way of constant danger?

What is their family situation?

Once these needs are fulfilled, the child can begin to think and care about their schooling. They see the need to achieve, become independent, seek fulfillment and realize their personal growth potential. Along with this, as an educator you not only need to be able to assess their situation, but make sure it doesn’t hold them back.

By establishing a relationship with each of your students, giving authentic rewards and praise, and keeping expectations high, student growth will continue exponentially. Here at the App-Garden, we have a Virtual Substitute Training that trains substitute teachers how to understand some of these situations and concept of Maslow over Mastery.