After six years away from the elementary classroom, I returned from my role as a professor of education to re-engage directly with students and teachers. This re-entry provided a unique lens to examine how teaching and learning environments have shifted, particularly in relation to instructional planning, student engagement, and the centrality of relationships. Immersing myself once again in daily classroom life allowed me to explore what truly matters in shaping human connections and effective pedagogy. Observations revealed both challenges and opportunities: the resilience of children, the evolving strategies teachers employ, and the renewed importance of empathy and flexibility in instructional design. This experience underscores the value of bridging theory and practice, reminding us that humanity lies at the heart of education. By stepping back into practice, I sought to illuminate how the humanities of teaching - care, creativity, and connection - continue to shape environments where both teachers and students thrive.

Presenters

• Karen Morrison karenmorrison@southalabama.edu, University of South Alabama