Professional Learning

Question: What Have You Learned From Your Students?

Students aren’t the only ones doing the learning. What lessons have they taught you this year?

May 23, 2025

Your content has been saved!

Go to My Saved Content.

As the school year winds down, it’s natural to reflect on how your students have grown and how far they’ve come. But in many classrooms, the learning has gone both ways. Whether through their resilience, creativity, honesty, or curiosity, students often challenge educators to think differently, adapt their approaches, or see the world from a fresh perspective. That's why we're asking you to share in the comments the lessons you've learned from students.

Maybe a student’s question made you rethink how you teach a concept. Maybe a quiet act of kindness reminded you of the power of classroom culture. Or maybe the challenges some students faced this year helped you better understand what support looks like—and what it doesn’t.

Educators often say they’re in the profession because they love learning. That mindset doesn’t just apply to pedagogy and professional development, it also applies to the kids in the room, too.

As you look back on the year, we’d love to know:

  • What have your students taught you?
  • Did any unexpected moments lead to big takeaways?
  • Have those lessons changed how you teach or how you see your role?

Share a story, a realization, or even a small moment that stuck with you. What you’ve learned might just help another educator see something new, too.

More on Learning From Students

Additional resources on this topic are most likely to be found on our Student Voice and Professional Learning pages. You might also find the following of interest:

At Edutopia, we're always looking for educators to share their strategies. If you have ideas that go beyond what can be shared in the comments, visit our Write for Us page.

Thank you for sharing your insights with us. If you have questions of your own, feel free to post them here—our community facilitators are ready to help!

Share This Story

  • bluesky icon
  • email icon

Filed Under

  • Professional Learning

Follow Edutopia

  • facebook icon
  • bluesky icon
  • pinterest icon
  • instagram icon
  • youtube icon
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
George Lucas Educational Foundation
Edutopia is an initiative of the George Lucas Educational Foundation.
Edutopia®, the EDU Logo™ and Lucas Education Research Logo® are trademarks or registered trademarks of the George Lucas Educational Foundation in the U.S. and other countries.