Fairness does NOT mean that everyone has the same.

As said in the previous post, I am studying the art of differentiating in the classroom. I call it "the art of..." because I am learning that it is truly an art and a skill that has to be mastered in order to be an excellent teacher. The word "fair" came up in our class discussion a few weeks ago, and my professor said something that made it click for me. She said something along the lines of:

"being fair has nothing to do with everyone getting the same, but everything to do with each individual getting what they need."

For me, when she said this, differentiation fell into place.
Teachers have a lot of variety in their classrooms, and students won't succeed if they are all getting the same instruction, assessments, and attention. However, I am seeing that even the smallest modification or accommodation, makes the biggest difference in the individual's education. Most students have a need that needs to be addressed in the classroom setting in order for subjects to be mastered.

I graduate this upcoming April, and I often find myself daydreaming about my first day of school as a real classroom teacher, saying to my class:
"In this classroom, we all have different needs, and in order for every individual in here to succeed, those needs of every student in here need to be addressed and taken care of. This is what we call being fair to every person. Because every person deserves to succeed."
 (of course, more eloquently said.)

 I can imagine my students nodded their heads in excitement, and cheering for the word we just defined.

Obviously I can't wait to be a teacher!