TDSB teacher applauded for creating inclusive classroom
It may not be a part of the official Grade 3 curriculum — but prayer and meditation time is a part of Evajoye Pinder’s classroom.
The teacher at Kingsview Village Junior School says the practice was inspired by a new student who arrived from Pakistan, and it’s since stuck around.
“She just started to pray, and that kind of gave permission for the other students who wanted to pray too,” Pinder said.
“And I said, ‘sure, let’s do this.'”
Pinder’s classroom has a number of Muslim students, as well as students from other religious backgrounds.
Kids who don’t use the time to pray are encouraged to practise mindfulness or simply take a moment of rest.
“I believe it’s fostered a positive classroom environment and created a safe space for them to be themselves, to feel seen and heard,” she said.
Students like 8-year-old Taqwa Mohamed agree.
“When you don’t feel included you feel like you’re left out, and you doubt yourself and it’s not good to doubt yourself,” she said.
Mohamed also participated in the class discussion about plans for Eid, and she says she appreciates having a teacher that makes her feel like she belongs.
“She’s wonderful, she’s nice and I feel blessed to have her,” Mohamed said.
Pinder says the efforts to create an inclusive classroom will continue well beyond Ramadan.
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