The Heart of a Teacher:

“The greatest barrier to learning is not what students know, but what teachers believe!”
– Dr. Wade W. Nobles

The soul of education lies not in curricula or testing but in the heart of a teacher. At its core, teaching is not just the transfer of knowledge but the transformative act of reaching students on a deeper, more human level. This belief is at the center of a practice I call tREACHING—reaching students before teaching them.

Dr. Wade W. Nobles reminds us that our beliefs as educators shape the learning journeys of our students. If we see them as capable, resilient, and worthy, they will rise to meet those expectations. But if we view them as “limited” or “at risk,” our implicit beliefs may become barriers to their potential. tREACHING challenges us to reexamine our assumptions and approach teaching with empathy, curiosity, and purpose.

What is tREACHING?

tREACHING is about more than delivering content—it’s about understanding who your students are, their stories, their struggles, and their strengths. It’s about making a deliberate effort to:

1. Build trust and relationships. Every student wants to feel seen and valued. A simple “How are you today?” or a genuine smile can lay the foundation for connection.
2. Affirm their identities. For newcomers, multilingual learners, and students with diverse backgrounds, honoring their cultures and languages is a powerful way to show them they belong.
3. Engage their humanity. Students are not just learners; they are thinkers, creators, and dreamers. Recognize and celebrate the whole person in front of you.
4. Empower them to succeed. When students believe you are invested in their growth, they will go the extra mile. Set high expectations, but scaffold their journey with patience and support.

Why tREACHING Matters

Every student enters the classroom with untapped potential. But unlocking that potential requires breaking down barriers—both external and internal. A teacher who practices tREACHING listens to the quiet stories behind a student’s silence, celebrates small victories, and approaches challenges as opportunities for growth.

When we reach before we teach, we create a safe space for students to take risks and thrive. We send a clear message: You matter. I believe in you. Let’s grow together.

This philosophy transforms classrooms into communities, where learning is a shared journey of discovery, not a one-way street of instruction.

The Heart of a Teacher

tREACHING begins with belief—the belief that every student, no matter their background or starting point, is capable of greatness. It’s a call to action for educators to lead with their hearts and connect on a human level before diving into academics.

Because when we reach first, teaching becomes not just an act, but a gift. And in giving, we discover the true heart of a teacher.

Gratitude for My Teachers

It is because of the incredible educators in my life that I discovered the true power of tREACHING. Teachers like Mrs. Hansen, my 3rd-grade teacher; Mrs. Bishop, my 4th-grade teacher; Ms. Carlson, my 6th-grade teacher; Mr. Belau, my junior high band teacher; and Mr. Stout, my junior high history teacher, left an indelible mark on my journey. I am also deeply grateful to my high school teachers—Mr. Garcia, Mr. Engstrom, Mrs. Hamada, and Ms. Clark—who guided and inspired me.

My heartfelt thanks extend to my university professors: Dr. Delbert Wiens, Drs. David and Yvonne Freeman, Professor Wayne Hubert, and my master teacher Rusty DeRuiter, whose mentorship shaped my path as an educator. Lastly, I owe profound gratitude to my exceptional professors and mentors, Professor Leslie Mark and Dr. Hugo Zorilla, for their unwavering support and guidance.

I will always carry deep gratitude for the way you tREACHED me.

Sincerely,

Efraín Tovar
#LetstREACH