Reflection: My last name is one that is difficult to pronounce, and my principal pronounced it incorrect from kindergarten through 8th grade. I remember my family trying to correct her informally, but she never really wanted to listen. Year after year, I knew it was coming when she called my name at assemblies or award ceremonies. I felt like she wasn't even calling me. Because that name was not who I was. In learning about the "calibrators", I realized how extra important it is for us as teachers to not make a "show" out of trying to pronounce the students name in front of the class. I never looked at it from that perspective before. I think it is so much more respectful to the student and their culture to handle it this way, and one that I will definitely be more mindful of in the future.
